Alpen Schatz (Alpine Treasures)

Matt Lauer Presents on Switzerland from the Jungfraujoch

2011-11-15T07:22:00.019-07:00

Anchorman Matt Lauer recently presented a segment on the Today Show:

Where in the world is Matt? Standing on 'top of Europe'

which is well worth a viewing. (Be sure to scroll down to see all pieces of his show, as each one is presented in a different video clip.)

In his Swiss TV appearance, one will see many Swiss treasures that Alpen Schatz makes available to its customers around the world.

Note the "in" hat of the Alps that Matt is wearing, the popular Austrian brand called Eisbär, which Alpen Schatz carries in it's shop every winter. He also talks about the Swiss Cows with their classic Cow Bells, the most well known Swiss Breed dog, the St Bernard with its Swiss Keg, and traditional Swiss Yodeling, that is reminiscent of our Yodeling Marmots - whose pristine yodel is actually one of the top yodeler's in the Alps!

2011 Alpen Schatz Happy Customers - January - September

2011-09-26T08:22:00.001-06:00

2011 Alpen Schatz Happy Customers - January - September, a set on Flickr.

Every month we receive over email and take pictures at our shop of people and their pets proudly wearing our Alpen Schatz accessories.

This is a summary of the first nine months of this year's Happy Customers. If you would like to share a picture of your dog or you wearing an Alpen Schatz item, please email us today! We would love to see the picture and share it with other Alpen Schatz fans!

Hops King at Telluride Blues and Brews in Alpen Schatz Attire

2011-09-23T15:32:00.001-06:00

Hops King at Telluride Blues and Brews in Alpen Schatz Attire, a photo by Alpen Schatz - Mary Dawn DeBriae on Flickr.

Boot Doctor Bob showing off his Bavarian roots in classic Alpen Schatz Lederhosen, Alpine Shirt and Tyrolean Hat at this year's 2011 Blues and Brews festival in Telluride, Colorado. Outfit found at the Alpen Schatz Boutique www.alpenschatz.com/Store/adult_tracht.htm

Happy Family in Alpen Scahtz Outfits

2011-09-23T14:48:00.001-06:00

Happy Family in Alpen Scahtz Outfits, a photo by Alpen Schatz - Mary Dawn DeBriae on Flickr.

This nice familly were visitors to last year's Grand Junction Oktoberfest when they visited the Alpen Schatz booth and got their outfits! Stop on by the Oktoberfest this year if you are in the area (October 1 2011) or visit us on-line or call our Boutique today! -888-88-ALPEN (25736) x 1

Oktoberfest 2011 in Grand Junction - Visit our Alpen Schatz Booth

2011-09-23T14:31:00.002-06:00

Oktoberfest 2010 Grand Junction - Alpen Schatz Booth, a photo by Alpen Schatz - Mary Dawn DeBriae on Flickr.

We will be participating again this year at the big Oktoberfest celebration in Grand Junction, Co, on Saturday, October 1, 2011. Come and visit us and get your true Alpen Attire for all of your Oktoberfest parties!

FROM NEW YORK CITY TO DEL MAR, CALIFORNIA

2011-06-26T23:11:00.016-06:00

HELLO!

We have been busy this spring, travelling to both ends of the country: From New York City to Del Mar, California for two large events in which Alpen Schatz was invited to participate. We have uploaded pictures from each event for you to enjoy!

THE WESTMINSTER DOG SHOW: NYC

The first event honored us in inviting Alpen Schatz to have a booth at one of the world's most renowned dog shows: The Westminster Dog Show in New York City, which took place over Valentine's weekend in February.

We brought with us our full Swiss and German HUNTER lines of pet products which were wonderfully received at the show. We were the first booth to open and the last to close over a five day period...did not get much sleep, however met many wonderful dog lovers and their dogs from all over the world. In all it was great fun and a successful event for us. We look forward to next year already!

Go to WESTMINSTER PICTURES to see a summary of the show.

THE BERNESE NATIONAL SPECIALTY SHOW: DEL MAR, CA The second large event was the National Bernese Mountain Dog Specialty, which took place in Del Mar, California this year. Once again, we had a great show, saw many of our old friends in the Berner world and Smokie Bear and Valentino with their Colorado freind Hagen, got to play on the beautiful California beaches! Many Bernese got their new Alpen Schatz collars or carting harnesses, and their owners got alpine hats and/or jewelry to accompany the "Swiss" look of their dogs. The event takes place over a full week and fun was had by all.

Go to BMDCA 2011 NATIONAL SPECIALTY to see a summary of pictures we took at the event.

ENJOY!!!

Mary Dawn DeBriae and the Alpen Schatzi's!

Alpen Schatz to Participate in the Westminster Dog Show NYC

2011-01-14T09:30:00.034-07:00

Alpen Schatz has the honor this year to be invited for the first time to exhibit and sell it's fine European pet products at the 135th Annual Westminster Dog Show in New York City, February 11-15, 2011.

This is a great chance to shop in person at Alpen Schatz, who many know from our on-line shop AlpenSchatz.com. We will have all of our pet products on our booth and even if you don't have tickets for the Dog Show in Madison Square Gardens, you can still shop with us for free entry at the hotel Pennsylvania.

Our booth will be located in "The Green Room" of the host hotel: Hotel Pennsylvania at 401 7th and 33rd, and across the street from Madison Square Garden. We will be open for sales from 10am-7pm daily from Friday through Monday - February 11-14. And on Tueday, Feb 15 10am-2pm.

We would also like to invite you to the VIP Pre-Westminster Fashion Show on Friday night, February 11th. Come see our Swiss and HUNTER products on the runway with VIP celebrities "dog whisperer" Cesar Milan,

as well as Loretta Switt of MASH, and Mickey Rourke of 9 1/2 Weeks who will be receiving awards at the event. Alpen Schatz will also have it's booth open for sales at this evening event - 6pm 'til Midnight. We might even be wearing our Tracht (traditional German dress) at the Fashion Show!

Should you live in the New York City area, we would love to meet you and your loving dog in person! Please do stop in!

Woof!

See you in New York!

Alpen Schatz Celebrates Oktoberfest in Grand Junction

2010-10-10T12:49:00.008-06:00

Alpen Schatz was fortunate enough to be invited to put an "Alpen Schatz" German booth at this year's Western Slope OKTOBERFEST in Grand Junction, Colorado.

The event took place last weekend and we had such a ball! We not only got all dolled up in our Alpine "Tracht", but many visitors to the show (as above) got their first pair of Lederhosen, Dirndl, Alpine Hat, Edelweiss Scarf, and/or Jodelling Marmot!

We were recommended to the President of the German Club in Grand Junction by Vicky and Joe Polger. Joe is a member of the "Alpine Echo" German band who plays at Alpen Schatz every year at our Noel Night Party in December.

We have posted all pictures from the event on our Flickr account. Click HERE to view the many visitors who enjoyed our booth.

There are many cute shots of our customers with their purchases! And you can see...the rosier the cheeks as the day moves into evening! The event went a whopping 12 hours, from 10am until 10pm! Enjoy!

Mary Dawn & the Alpen Schatzi's!

Telluride 4th of July Parade 2010

2010-07-05T13:37:00.000-06:00

This year's Telluride 4th of Parade was a great success! We had more than 16 dogs and people all dressed-up in Alpine outfits. Smokie Bear pulled a wagon with two cute small dog fans riding in it, whilst Valentino and the other Alpen Schatz doggie fans and their people marched alongside!

With cowbells clanging and whistles piping and the odd jodel from some of our Alpen Schatzis, our colorful entry in the Telluride 4th of July Parade definately mades one feel like they were back in some small Alpine village in Switzerland or Austria.

Click HERE to join in on the fun we had!

Balloon Glow party at Alpen Schatz and Pip's Consignment featuring DJ Daryl

2010-06-05T19:02:00.005-06:00

Watch the party unfold at the Balloon Glow party at Alpen Schatz and Pip's Consignment featuring DJ Daryl. See the slide show below.

Hit refresh to see the latest photos!

Alpen Schatz to Exhibit at National Bernese Mountain Dog Specialty

2010-04-20T13:17:00.021-06:00

May 10-15, 2010 is a very special time for Bernese lovers world-wide! It marks the 2010 National Bernese Club of America Specialty - where the creme de la creme of Bernese breeders, Bernese lovers, and of course "Berners" of all shapes and sizes, ability and talent come together to compete, have fun, and socialize at the nation's largest show for the breed.

This year the show takes place in Oconomowoc (now say that ten times fast!), Wisconsin at the beautiful Olympia Resort and the event is free to attend. At the show, one will see everything from sheep dog trials, draft (cart pulling), obedience, "freestyle" dance and of course confirmation - just like in the Westminster Dog Show - except they are all Bernese Mountaint Dogs! People get dressed up in their finest outfits, groom their dogs to the fullest and have so much fun...

Alpen Schatz has been supporting the event for almost a decade and will travel to the show with our own two Bernese, Valentino Schatz and Smokie Bear, where we will erect a small "Alpen Schatz" store for all of the Swiss dog lovers to visit!

Popular items we bring along to sell are our: Swiss Collars, Alpine Dog Kegs, Swiss Cow Bells, Alpine Jewelry, German Alpine Hats, Lederhosen, Dirndl's and much more!

So if you live in the area, come and visit us...and if you don't have Bernese you can still come and enjoy the show! We look forward to seeing you!!!!

Mary Dawn, Smokie Bear and Valentino Schatz
***And our dear, dear Schlappi in spirit***

For more information in general about the Bernese Breed, visit the official web-site

of the Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America.

Alpen Schatz Outfit Alpino Vino Staff

2010-01-23T14:25:00.015-07:00

Telluride Ski and Golf (Telski) has created quite possibly the highest Wine Bar/Bistro in the world at the top of one of it's 12,000 ft mountains in the heart of the Telluride Ski Resort. The restaurant is called Alpino Vino and is rated tops by Telluride visitors and skiers for it's fine wines and lunchtime European-style delicacies.

Telski looked to Alpen Schatz for assistance in providing it's staff with authentic German and Austrian outfits. The Manageress is sporting a trendy light blue Dirndl by Bavarian designer, Meindl, and the servers are wearing classic Giesswein boiled wool vests from Austria.

Telski CEO Dave Riley recently wrote a piece about this unique, authentic Alpine Bistro in his Blog Posting this winter (click on the link and scroll down).

We also did our own review of this stylish, Alpine Ski Restaurant when it first opened, see: Alpino Vino - a Review.

Radio Interview with Maribeth Clemente of Travel Fun

2010-01-20T23:48:00.000-07:00

I was recently honored with the opportunity to be interviewed by Maribeth Clemente on her radio show, "Travel Fun" which airs on Koto Radio every Tuesday. Maribeth is a long time friend and fellow Europhile , sharing the same passion for European travel and culture as I do.

Maribeth, also a resident of Telluride, Colorado, is the author of a very popular on-line Travel Blog entitled "Bonjour Colorado" as well of a series of highly acclaimed travel books entitled "The Riches of...", focussing on her life in and love of Paris and France.

The interview covers some unique products and traditions in the German speaking countries of Europe. So, sit back, press play and enjoy our dialogue!

Big Paw Gourmet Olive Oils and Vinegars

2010-01-20T10:35:00.002-07:00

In our never ending quest for interesting, handcrafted products we have come across a fabulous line of scrumptious Olive Oils and exquisite Balsamic Vinegars that we will be adding to our gourmet food section in our Telluride Alpen Schatz store. The company is called Big Paw Grub, and for all of my dog loving followers their story of why they are called BIG PAW is worth reading.

"A Big Paw Story", by the founders of BIG PAW GRUB:

"What does a “big paw” have to do with delicious, high quality olive oil and flavored vinegars? We get that question all the time.

It all started with a great dog named Tio and what we thought would be just another terrific hike in the California highlands. When Tio (of the big paws, of course) took off after a jackrabbit and suddenly lost its scent completely, we were stumped. So was he. Turns out that crafty jackrabbit had run through a huge stand of wild sage–powerfully fragrant stuff. We picked some to take back to the campsite and started thinking. The rest is history."

Anyhow, should you be in the Telluride area please do stop in for a tasting, I guarantee, you will be walking out with a bottle or two. As a great lover and connoisseur of good Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars myself, I have to say, theirs rates some of the best I have ever experienced - world-wide! For starters, try out their Mission Fig Balsamic Vinegar...dark, smooth, big, sweet and rich....just like a prize winning Cabernet or Merlot...it is hard to be equaled!

Welcome BIG PAWS to Alpen Schatz!

For more info check out their brochure below (or download it here):

Noel Night at Alpen Schatz

2009-12-11T12:48:00.005-07:00

In case you missed our annual Noel Night (Dec 2, 2009 at Alpen Schatz, here are a few photos to give you a taste of what you missed! By the way, we served killer Raclette, German Lebkuchen (a yummy holiday Gingerbread), and spicy mulled cider and the traditional Gluehwein - just like in the German Christkindlmaerkts! Also, welcome to our new store!

Serving up the goodies! Welcome to our new store!

Michael looking quite Bavarian posing with two gals trying on Dirndl's

Following is a slide show featuring all of our pictures from our Holiday event and Grand Opening party in our new store location.

As usual to make it full screen click on the button in lower right after you start the slideshow.

Alles Gute und ein Frohe Weihnachten wuenschen wir alle!!!

Mary Dawn and the Alpen Schatzi's

Alpen Schatz now carries Eisbär Ski Hats of Austria

2009-12-04T10:32:00.010-07:00

Alpen Schatz is now one of the ONLY stores in the United States to carry Eisbär Ski Hats of Austria. Eisbär is THE trendiest hat to have whilst skiing in Switzerland, Austria, France and Italy and is also the official hat of the Austrian Ski Team!

Alpen Schatz is excited to be one of the first to offer them to the US market!

Call our Boutique in Telluride, Colorado to order! 970-728-4433.

or email boutique@alpenschatz.com

BE ONE OF THE FIRST IN THE USA TO BE HIP WITH Eisbär!

Alpen Schatz to Exhibit at the 2009 HH Backer Christmas Pet Trade Show

2009-09-07T11:22:00.021-06:00

Once again, Alpen Schatz will be attending the largest Pet Industry trade show of the year: The HH Backer Christmas Pet Industry Trade Show in Chicago, October 2-4 2009.

BOOTH 4728

We will be introducing our latest new line: HUNTER GmbH of Germany.

HUNTER offer a vast range of beautiful, hand finished dog collars, harnesses and leashes. They have been a market leader in pet fashion as well as quality and design in Europe for almost 30 years.

Alpen Schatz is the first US company to distribute their fine pet accessories for dogs and cats into the North American market.

So, if you own a pet boutique or specialty catalog or store, we would love to see you on our booth (number 4728) in Chicago.

If you are a consumer, visit our website to see all of our fine European made pet lines!

Always feel free to EMAIL us for more information or visit http://www.alpenschatz.com/ .

Telluride 2009 4th of July Parade & the ALPEN SCHATZI's!

2009-09-07T11:11:00.003-06:00

We had quite the turn-out for our entry in the Telluride 4th of July Parade. We had more Swiss dogs than ever before, including: Bernese Mtn Dogs, Entlebuchers, a St Bernard and a "Bernese look alike" or two. We also had more Alpen Schatz people than ever before, from kids through to adults showing off their Swiss/German outfits! We all met at Alpen Schatz and then snuck down the back alley way to take our position in the parade. It was so much fun!

Afterwards, at the big Town Park Picnic, we received 1st place for our entry in this year's parade! That is the second year in a row that we haev received such a prize! Thank you judges!

Thank you to all who participated! It was more fun than ever : )

Mary Dawn & Alpen Schatz

4th of July in Telluride with Alpen Schatz

2009-07-02T12:23:00.016-06:00

See the Alpen Schatzi's

in the Telluride 4th of July

Parade this Saturday!

The time of year has come again for the illustrious Telluride 4th of July celebrations!

Alpen Schatz has participated in every Telluride 4th of July Parade since 2004! Catch a glimpse of last year's parade (click on the slide show button to view on big screen).

We are called "The Bernese Mountain Dogs of Telluride and their Schatzi's", with Smokie Bear as the official waggon puller. We invite other Swiss Breed dogs such as the Bernese Mountain Dog, the Entlebucher, the Greater Swiss and St Bernards to join us, as well as our other Alpen Schatz Swiss collar wearing customers and their owners. Typically, Smokie pulls the wagon with smaller doggie passengers in it.

We like to dress up in the traditional Swiss-German clothing and ring our cowbells. Last year, we sang the song Edelweiss, which brought us a First Place Prize at the 4th of July picnic afterwards.

So, if you happen to be in the Telluride Area, we hope to see you on Saturday watching the parade and at ALPEN SCHATZ Boutique afterwards, where we are having our annual 4th of July BIG BANG Sale- all alpine clothing in stock a whopping 40% off! Now is the time to get "Alpine"!

Also, the Boot Doctors of Telluride will be at Alpen Schatz all day long, talking about the great river rafting trips that are taking place in our area RIGHT NOW and to sign you up for the ride of a lifetime : )

Happy 4th!

Mary Dawn & the Alpen Schatzi's

Telluride Bluegrass Celebration

2009-06-17T14:04:00.010-06:00

In celebration of Telluride's biggest festival, the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Alpen Schatz is holding an all week long sale of 40% off of ANY item of our

designer clothing in our store!

The sale includes popular name brands such as MEINDL ( like the jacket that Jennifer just purchased above), BARBOUR, GEISSWEIN Boiled Wool, LEDERHOSEN, DIRNDL's and much more! **Sale is good for INSTOCK items only!**

Below is one Festivarian, who got her whole outfit, Meindl Dress, Meindl Sweater AND French Sun hat at Alpen Schatz! Sweet!

If you don't live in Telluride, but would like to take advantage of our SALE this week, please call us at 1-888-88ALPEN OR email us at boutique@alpenschatz.com. We'd love to hear from you : )

Happy BLUEGRASS!

Your Alpen Schatz Team!

Pet Friendly trip to the West Coast with Smokie Bear and Valentino

2009-05-19T20:44:00.009-06:00

As follow-up to my last posting, Michael, I and our pups, Smokie Bear and Valentino Schatz (and our dear Schlappi in Spirit) just completed a wonderful 2.5 week trip to Utah, Idaho, Oregon and California, including a week in Portland for the National Bernese Specialty show. As it turned out, our trip has turned into a fido friendly adventure that will be turned into a story for the best travel magazine for dogs - Fido Friendly !

We had so many adventures, and my article will be filled with great tips of what to do and places to stay with your favourite furry friend. Visit Michael's Blog, where we are posting a running account of our daily activities on our trip. When my full story is published, it will be posted back here, on the Alpen Schatz blog. Enjoy!

Off to Portland for the Bernese Mountain Dog National Specialty Show!

2009-04-11T08:48:00.008-06:00

The time is fast approaching for us to head out for our annual presence at the Bernese Mountain Dog National Specialty Show. This year it will be held in Portland, Oregon - a place we have never been before.

The show is a week long of action packed Bernese fun, from Sheep Herding Trials, to Draft, to Agility, to the best of the best Bernese dogs and bitches in the country competing in Conformation for the National Championships. It is the annual "Who's Who" and networking event of the Bernese Mountain Dog World.

Alpen Schatz has been attending the event since 2002, with a booth offering everything Swiss and Alpine, from its dog collars, to its kegs, to its traditional alpine apparel and accessories.

If you happen to be in the Portland area April 27-May 2, stop in. The event is free and well worth the visit! We would also welcome seeing you at our Booth at the show!

Wir freuen uns auf Ihren Besuch! Alles Gutes!

Mary Dawn

Extreme End Of Season Sale On In-Stock Alpine Clothing

2009-03-21T08:23:00.002-06:00

T'is the season to get great savings on Alpine Wear at Alpen Schatz. We have just announced our biggest End Of Season Sale ever!!!

Please stop in our store or call for availability.

Alpen Schatz Donates Dirndls for Telluride Sound of Music Performance

2009-03-12T13:25:00.008-06:00

.

The Telluride Repertory Theatre Company is putting on The Sound Of Music

March 26 - March 29th here in Telluride's Palm Theatre, Telluride, Colorado.

Mary Dawn from Alpen Schatz is helping to support the Telluride performance of The Sound Of Music with authentic Austrian Dirndl’s (Fitted German/Austrian Dress).

The following ad can be found in the program.

Hope to see you at the performance! Tickets can be bought here

With warm "Julie Andrews" regards!
The hills are alive...

.

Alpen Schatz on TV!

2009-02-27T09:06:00.003-07:00

Our local TV station, Plum TV, recently put together a one minute advertorial on Alpen Schatz. The short clip features many of our products and clientele shopping in our store. Come on in for a visit and turn up your volume. Enjoy!

Little Valentino becomes our Alpen Schatzi

2009-02-02T22:28:00.003-07:00

A few months after Schlappi's departure, little Valentino enter's our life. He is from Stacy Temple's Wagontale kennel in Fort Collins, CO. He actually has many Schlappi-like features and we can hardly wait to bring him home! He will come home to us on Feb 11. He is a little bundle of fuzziness and joy and will fill our hearts and the void that Schlappi's departure left in us.

New York Stock Exchange Ring Alpen Schatz Cow Bells!

2009-02-02T22:14:00.006-07:00

Every January, the New York Stock Exchange attends the World Economic Summit in Davos, Switzerland. Every year for the past 5 years, they have ordered 40-50 Alpen Schatz Cow Bells to ring at the opening ceremonies. Our biggest cow bell order per year and another example of what the bells can be used for!

In Loving Memory...ODE to SCHLAPPI

2009-02-02T21:48:00.004-07:00

On November 6, 2008, our most loving, dearest dog and inspiration for the birth of Alpen Schatz passed away from a terrible form of Liver Cancer. Our dear Schlappi was hardly 7 and a half years old. Much too young to die.

As part of our love for him and to help ourselves through the grieving process, I began composing this Ode to him before he died, completing it after he had gone across the Rainbow Bridge to doggie heaven. Here's to you, our dear, dear Schlappi who was loved not only by us, but by thousands of Alpen Schatz visitors over the years. XXX to you!

Click on the image below to view the complete tribute to Schlappi...

Alpen Schatz Yodelling Marmot Yodels Bernese Puppies to Sleep

2008-12-22T12:49:00.014-07:00

Cherry and her Puppies

I just had a wonderful friend and customer of mine write to me after she received her Alpen Schatz Yodelling Marmot for a Christmas present. My friend has just had a HUGE litter of 11 Bernese puppies, and Cherry, the Bernese Mom, thought that the Yodelling marmot must be one of hers...well...see for yourself below what my friend, Kathy wrote of the incident...

Kathy wrote:

"HI, Mary Dawn,
Thank you so much for the yodelling Marmot!! We all love him!! That was so sweet of you.
We have 2-week old puppies and they were all making noises, which they do whenever they are awake but not nursing, so I pressed the Marmot's foot to see if the yodelling would quiet them down, and it did! So Cherry took him off the table (he was still in the box) and brought him into the whelping box and placed him in with the puppies! I rescued him right away so he wouldn't get peed on, and had to put him high on a shelf, because Cherry was convinced he was one of hers! It was too precious.
We wish you all the very best for the Holiday Season.
Best regards,
Kathy"

So Cherry's puppies were only a few weeks old in those photos, however below is what the pups will resemble at about 6-8 weeks old. All puppies are cute, however no doubt that Bernese Pups are the extra-special of the extra-cute categorie!

For more information on the Bernese Breed, email myself or visit the Official National Web-site for the

Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America!

Great News from Alpen Schatz

2008-10-07T08:58:00.005-06:00

We've just updated our Swiss Collar page with great new prices AND added sizing charts that will make selecting your collar that much easier.

REMEMBER, a handcrafted exquisite Swiss Alpen Schatz Collar makes the perfect gift for your beloved pup!

With warm Berner hugs to all!

Mary Dawn & the Alpen Schatz Team

PLUM TV Interview

2008-06-24T12:11:00.003-06:00

Recently, I was asked to do an interview for The Morning Show on our local TV station: PLUM TV. I got to talk about Alpen Schatz, German traditions, and what inspired me to start my business. This was my first appearance on the telly, however Jeb, the interviewer made it quite fun and easy. ENJOY!

Not only Dogs are customers of Alpen Schatz Collars!

2008-03-21T12:17:00.009-06:00

A few years ago, Ruby, the very famous Mountain Lion of the Rockies came into the Alpen Schatz Boutique one day and left with an Alpen Schatz Swiss collar and bell! Her owner, Melissa Margetts, stated that she needed a collar for her public appearances on TV and for seminars.

Melissa insisted that I get in one of the pictures...so here I am - my one and only closest encounter with a mountain lion! AND such a nice one. She had one hec of a PURRRRR!

Anyhow, Ruby is no longer with us. She lived to the ripe old age of 23 years old, making her the oldest living mountain lion on record.

GOOD-BYE Ruby. We will miss you!

Christmas Market Trip to France and Germany!

2007-09-01T13:26:00.000-06:00

Following many years of requests, I am teaming up with another European expert, Maribeth Clemente, to finally organize a trip for a small group of people to visit two of our favourite European countries.

Limited Seating Available! Sign-up now!

Christmas Market Tour to Germany and France
November 30-December 9

Discover the fairytale lands of Bavaria and Alsace as you visit the famed Christkindlmärkte and Marchés de Noël with two experts, Mary Dawn DeBraie and Maribeth Clemente.

These incurable devotées of fine European goods are right now in the midst of planning a tour that will allow you to experience the warmth and wonder of Christmastime in some of the most culturally-rich regions of Germany and France. Highlights include behind-the-scenes visits to special places such as artisans’ workshops, restaurants, vineyards, and more. Whether you’re truly out to shop or just interested in taking in the festive ambiance of centuries-old villages, brightly festooned streets, charming boutiques, world-renowned museums, and some of the finest food and wine of Europe, this is a trip that is sure to leave you with many warm and fuzzy memories for the rest of your life.

And it’s the experts that will be leading you on this tour that make all the difference. Here’s just a bit about these two passionate ladies from Telluride, Colorado…

Mary Dawn DeBriae lived in England for eight years and then in Bavaria, Germany for five. She is fluent In German and highly knowledge about the culture and traditions of Germany and most of the Alps having traveled extensively throughout Bavaria, Switzerland, Austria, and Northern Italy. Once back in the United States, she began her own business called Alpen Schatz (Alpine Treasures), importing some of the finest traditional “treasures” to be found in the Alpine region of Europe. This import business later expanded into a flagship store, located in Telluride, Colorado. More information can be found at www.alpenschatz.com.

Maribeth Clemente lived in Paris, France eleven years and is, of course, fluent in the French language and l’art de vivre français. She founded a shopping service in Paris at that time that organized tours to the off-the-beaten-path boutiques of the French capital, visits behind the scenes to the big names, and culturally-driven excursions to the provinces of France. Maribeth has authored four books on France including The Riches of France: A Shopping and Touring Guide to the French Provinces and the recently-released second edition of The Riches of Paris: A Shopping and Touring Guide to Paris. Visit www.therichesof.com to learn more about Maribeth and her work and also to discover an abundance of information about shopping and travel around the world.

Itinerary

November 30-December 9
FRANCE: November 30-December 4 GERMANY: December 4-December 9

Friday, November 30 STRASBOURG

Late afternoon check in to the contempory style fourteenth century Hotel du Dragon ( www.dragon.fr ) in Strasbourg, France, the biggest and most beautiful city of Alsace. Welcome aperitif at the hotel.
Evening walk around Les Marches de Noel de Strasbourg, a Christmas market that has existed here since 1570. (I can already smell the mulled wine and salted pretzels!)
Dinner at a winstub, an authentic wine bar/bistrot of Alsace, will follow.

Saturday, December 1 STRASBOURG

After breakfast, we will go on a guided walking tour of the pink-stoned Strasbourg Cathedral and a couple of the city's most historic districts. Go to www.ot-strasbourg.com for more information on Strasbourg; www.tourisme-alsace.com for Alsace info.
Late morning arrival at Le Crocodile ( www.au-crocodile.com ), a two-star Michelin restaurant. Brief kitchen tour of the restaurant, followed by a gastronomic lunch in Le Crocodile's elegant dining room.
Free time after lunch for rest at the hotel or discovery on your own.
Late afternoon guided walking tour of the shops (especially all the wonderful food purveyors!) of Strasbourg with Maribeth.
More shopping and touring at Les Marches de Noel. (Note that most of the shops stay open until 7 p.m.; the Christmas Markets remain open until 8pm.)
Dinner on your own; Strasbourg restaurant recommendations will be provided.
Second night at the lovely Hotel du Dragon.

Sunday, December 2 STRASBOURG/COLMAR

AM Guided tour of the Musee Alsacien, the number one attraction in the region (in Maribeth's opinion) for learning about les arts et les traditions populaires d' Alsace.
Lunch on your own---perhaps just a sandwich to eat on the train to Colmar.
Early afternoon departure on the train to Colmar, a pretty little city at the southernmost end of the Wine Route of Alsace; check out http://www.ot-colmar.fr/.
Afternoon check in to the Maison des Tetes hotel ( www.chateauxhotels.com ), a handsome seventeenth-century dwelling, built against the fortifications of the old part of Colmar.
Late afternoon tour around the Christmas Markets of Colmar, followed by dinner at an incredibly charming country French restaurant, situated within the vineyards of Alsace, just outside of Colmar. Taxi transfer will also be provided here.

Monday, December 3 COLMAR

Early morning departure (9am – still civalized!) for a full-day and evening adventure along la route des vins d'Alsace in a chauffeur-driven minibus. Incontestably the most picturesque wine route in all of France, this most scenic excursion will be punctuated by half-timbered rosy-colored houses topped with red-tiled roofs and centuries-old villages that showcase an eclectic array of artisans and craftspeople. Highlights include the following:
A special behind-the-scenes visit to Beauville (www.beauville.com) in Ribeauville, a textile maker founded in 1838. Best known for their brightly colored, magnificently designed tablecloths that are turned out in a broad range of patterns, Beauville's creations have enjoyed particular success at dinner parties around the world these past two decades. The Beauville factory discount shop is also located here so definitely plan to do some shopping!
Wine tasting at a well-known winery followed by lunch nearby at a quaint winstub.
Gingerbread tasting at the region's best known maker of this special holiday treat. Known as pain d'epice by the French, here you'll also be able to visit the gingerbread baker's kitchen and his specially-assembled gingerbread museum. Indeed it is all very Hansel & Gretel-like and oh-so yummy, too!
Shopping and touring for traditional Alsatian arts and crafts in at least two other villages.
Late afternoon wine tasting at another well-known vineyard.
Visit to Les Marches de Noel de Kaysersberg, the most charming Christmas market in all of Alsace. Here some thirty vendors set up their wares in little wooden stalls interspersed throughout this Medieval village.
Dinner on your own in Kaysersberg. (There are many restaurants from which to chose.)
Return to Colmar by 10:30 p.m. Second night in the cozy confines of the traditionally-styled Maison des Tetes hotel.

Tuesday, December 4 COLMAR/FREIBURG

9:30 a.m.- Guided visit of the Musee Unterlinden, a world-renowned museum in Colmar that boasts an important collection of paintings, sculpture, and Alsatian folk and decorative art. Tour around the most historic buildings of Colmar, conducted largely in a little train that circles the old town.
Lunch on your own. Early afternoon departure for Germany in chauffeur-driven coach.
Arrive mid- afternoon in Freiburg, a charming medieval town nestled in the hills of the Black Forest, Germany. See www.freiburg.de. Freiburg is surrounded by a scenic wooded landscape interspersed with luscious vineyards, which add to the ambiance of the area.
We will be staying in Germany’s oldest hotel, Hotel Zum Roten Baeren, www.roter-baeren.de. Zum Roten Baeren has been in service as an Inn since 1120!
An afternoon tea & cake reception will welcome us upon arrival.
Free time for a couple of hours to relax in your room, or explore the surrounding area.
Meet for a 4 course dinner in the Inn’s 900 year old Restaurant, classified as “the oldest Parlour” in Freiburg!

Wednesday, 5 December 2007 FREIBURG

Following breakfast, we will meet for a private two hour walking tour of “The Historical Highlights of Freiburg”.
The afternoon will be free for shopping at the Christkindlmarkt and visit to the old pedestrian shopping area. Lunch will be on your own.
Meet at 6pm for an evening stroll to the nearby gondola for a scenic ride up to the Schlossberg Restaurant Dattler for a panoramic four-course gourmet dining experience. The Restaurant is in what was once an old eighteenth-century fortress, which later became a restaurant – over 125 years ago in the year 1892! See www.dattler.de
Ride the Gondola back to the hotel.

Thursday, 6 December 2007 BLACK FOREST/GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN

After breakfast, we will board our small private coach. First Stop will be Titisee, a quaint Black Forest village where Cuckoo Clocks have been made for centuries.
Meet with the Craftsmen of an old family run Cuckoo clock company. See their craft in action and do some last minute Christmas shopping at the shop where this family’s Cuckoo Clocks originate! See www.titisee.de .
Early afternoon, we will leave the Black Forest and continue on to the magical German village of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Garmisch is nestled in the foothills of the Alps and at the base of Germany’s largest mountain – the Zugspitz (2,962m or 9,718 feet). www.garmisch-partenkirchen.de
Our hotel in Garmisch is the luxurious Spa Hotel Zugspitze. See www.hotel-zugspitze.de .
There will be a couple of hours to relax, before we board our Horse Drawn Carriage, which will whisk us away on a 1 hour ride through the twinkling lights of Garmisch.
The carriage will eventually bring us to a small Gondola, which will take us up the mountain to the Forsthaus Graseck, a remote Mountain Restaurant where we will dine in true Bavarian Alpine style. See www.forsthaus-graseck.de .

Friday, 7 December 2007 GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN

After Breakfast, we will leave the day free to explore the colorful town of Garmisch.
Be our guest to indulge in the German “Spa” experience, with a complementary 20 minute Massage “Vital” treatment in the Hotel Zugspitze’s world class spa. Other treatments can also be arranged for an additional fee.
Optional Afternoon Excursion ($100 extra) - Exciting round trip excursion up the Zugspitze Mountain– Start up the mountain by a cogwheel train to the Schneefern Glacier, then change to the glacier cable car, which takes you to Germany's highest summit. You will be awaited by a breath-taking 360 degree panoramic view over countless peaks in Austria, Italy, Switzerland and of course Germany. After soaking in the view we will take the Eibsee cable car, with wonderful views of the Eibsee Lake, back down into the valley. At the Eibsee lake we will rejoin the cogwheel train to travel back to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Lunch not included, but available in the Zugspitze Restaurant on top of the mountain.
Early evening visit to Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s Christkindlmarkt!
Scrumptious three course dinner that evening at the Hotel Zugspitze.

Saturday, 8 December GARMISCH/MUNICH

After breakfast, free time for last minute shopping or relaxing in the hotel spa. Depart at noon for Muenchen (Munich). http://www.muenchen.de
Get settled into Munich at the quaint 200 year old “Hotel am Englischergarten”. This private Inn is a converted water mill adjoining the beautiful Englischer Garten in the center of Munich. See www.hotelenglischergarten.de
Optional late afternoon walking tour of Mary Dawn’s “Best of” Munich favorites.
Early evening visit to Munich’s famous Christkindlmarkt and then Abschied “Good-bye” Dinner in the Schneider Weisses Brauhaus, one of Munich’s “insider favorite” Sixteenth Century Brewery Restaurant in the center of town. www.weisses-brauhaus.de

Sunday, 9 December MUNICH/DEPARTURE

Breakfast and then individual departures home.

* * * *

Price $3495pp (Based on Double Occupancy)
$500 (Single Supplement)

The Trip Iincludes:

Nine nights hotel accommodation in three- and four-star hotels
Nine Breakfasts
Seven Gourmet Dinners (Wine included)
Two Gourmet Lunches
Transportation between cities, all taxis, all gondolas, and horse drawn carriage ride, as specified above
Private guided tours by local experts and of course your private hosts, Maribeth & Mary Dawn
Museum entrance fees
Exclusive Wine Tastings as specified above

The Trip Does Not Include:

Airfare
Transportation to and from train stations or airports at the beginning and end of the trip
Individual Travel Insurance
Lunches and dinners as listed above as “on your own”

Limited to only 10 participents to ensure a wonderful personal service!

Sign-up now! Visit www.alpenschatz.com to download an application. Applications will be accepted on a first come, first serve basis.

Alpen Schatz Marmot makes YouTube!!!

2007-05-30T13:58:00.000-06:00

I was recently searching the Internet and came across two anonymous posted videos of our darling yodelling Alpen Schatz Marmot!!! Enjoy!

Bernese Mountain Dog Specialty Coming Up!

2007-04-19T21:58:00.000-06:00

Alpen Schatz will be travelling to Louisville, Kentucky in May 2007, with our beloved Berner pups, Schlappi and Smokie Bear, in attendance. We will be participating in all of the excitement which the annual Bernese Mountain Dog Specialty brings every year!

We have been participating in the Specialty since 2003 and always try to bring the Bernese World the most special international treasures that we can find.

This year, we have many new surprises. Firstly and foremost we will be bringing the very first Swiss yodeling and dancing Murmeltier (or Marmots) ever seen in the US! Newly settled in the Alps, these little creatures have been making European people and their pets smile with their cute antics.

Next, of course, we will have our beautiful original, handcrafted Swiss dog collars and carting harnesses, with which we started our business over 5 years ago.

AND...as it is the week of the Kentucky Derby we have a special surprise for all of our patrons and friends. Our latest discovery: Parisian Raffia Sun Hats. These hats are decadently large, functional and can be formed into a multitude of styles, making any face look like Audrey Hepburn at the races : )

Only $75 while supplies last...

More later, after the specialty...but if you get a chance to visit us in Louisville...you will see some of THE BEST Bernsese Mountain Dogs and their breeders in action!!!

Mit freundlichen Grüßen

Mary Dawn, Schlappi & Smokie Bear (Arff! Arff!)

European Adventure Spring 2007

2007-04-01T10:38:00.000-06:00

For our latest European trip, we began in Munich (where I once lived), then drove to beautiful Salzburg for the Alpine Fashion Show. Then a little bit of R&R - off to Klosters/Davos Switzerland for some true Alpine skiing. Then back to Austria and Munich and then home...

Someday, I would like to take Schlappi and Smokie Bear along, too, to see the homeland of their forefathers. Enjoy!

Click HERE for the Alpen Adventure...

PS The slide show may take a few minutes to download. If not completed after a couple of minutes, hit the refresh button and it should appear.

Welcome to the Alpen Schatzi's World!!!

2007-03-20T22:24:00.000-06:00

Hallo und Liebe Grüsse from Alpen Schatz!

Welcome to the first Alpen Schatz Blog, aiming to bring you the latest News, Products, Events and Travel Stories from the Alpen Schatz World.

As the seasoned Alpen Schatzi knows, we began with the famous original Swiss Dog collar, which our wonderful Pup, Schlappi has always worn. First purchased in Klosters, Switzerland