In the rhythm of the horses
Alfons Bischof, who has been keeping the tradition of horse-drawn carriage rides alive for decades, lives and works in the mountain kingdom of Damüls Faschina. What began as a hobby has become a life's work for him, bringing him joy and fulfillment.
In this interview, he talks about his enthusiasm for horses and tells us about unforgettable excursions into nature in a horse-drawn carriage.
Alfons, how did you come into contact with horses?
Alfons: In the 1950s, the former skier Trude Jochum-Beiser from Lech won a horse in a race, which my father bought from her. We were very proud of this horse and used it for sledging. In summer, our horse brought the wood up to the alp. This work, hauling wood, has a long tradition in alpine regions.
So how did you become a coachman?
Alfons: In the 80s I drove post buses and school buses, then I started my own business with our guest house. It all started by chance when the coachman in Damüls at the time fell ill and I looked after his horses in the stables. From then on, I wanted to have horses and drive coaches myself.
Where is your stable located and which horses are you riding today?
Alfons: My stables are near the Schwendehof, about one and a half kilometers from our guest house. After the old coachman's horses were sold, I got some myself. Today I have two Noriker horses, nine and eleven years old. They are medium-weight, strong and enduring mountain cold-blooded horses. They are both mares because they are easier to care for. They trust me blindly because they know me inside out. I go to the stables in the morning, at lunchtime and in the evening and feed them. When I take them out to pasture by bike in summer, they walk calmly beside me. And when I drive the carriage, I just have to cough and they know it's time to go.
For whom and when do you offer your carriage rides?
Alfons: In summer, I drive from the Uga parking lot to Sunnegg and back seven to eight times every Monday. The guests can enjoy the fantastic view and nature on the 20-minute ride, and sometimes we even see chamois. On other days, you can also book a whole hour with me. The summer rides are particularly popular with tourists, some even travel from Germany to experience a carriage ride in Damüls.
In winter, when there is enough snow, I offer sleigh rides almost every day. The only time I don't ride is when it's raining, it's too unsafe. You always have to be careful with cars, but horses are predestined for this. They are so intelligent, they don't even bat an eyelid when a bus drives past. Horses are also so sensitive, they can taste and smell an avalanche, for example, long before it comes down.
How do you prepare your horses for carriage rides?
Alfons: Their training begins at a young age. They learn to walk on a lead and are gently accustomed to the carriage; one horse learns from the other, which already knows its way around. With my two, there were no hoof kicks, they understood each other immediately and knew that they belonged together. They are like a couple and ride side by side even when they go out. When I ride the carriage on Monday, I wash them with a pressure washer on Sunday, because I don't harness dirty horses. They know how nice it is and are already looking forward to their work the next day.
20 years ago, you did the coachman's course. What for?
Alfons: Having worked with horses for years, of course I already knew how the whole thing worked. But to transport guests, you officially need a "coachman's license". You learn how to harness the horses, attach the leads, turn and hold them, and how to drive dressage and social carriages. It is also important that the horses get along well and work together harmoniously. That they are well fed and get plenty of exercise. They used to be harnessed to transport timber from morning to evening, so they are used to working.
Are there any particular experiences that have stayed with you?
Alfons: Oh yes, there are many! I've already driven to several weddings or transported guests to music festivals and parades. I had a particularly nice experience recently, a ride with 17 disabled people from Zimbapark in Bludenz. We drove twice because only 10 people fit in the carriage. Their gratitude was indescribable and really touched me. When guests get such big eyes when they see the horses and are so happy, it just makes me happy.
You will soon be 80. What are your plans for the future?
Alfons: As long as my health allows it, I will continue to drive the carriage. I often say: if you stop, you rust. With my horses, I work in the stables all day and always have something to do. I am grateful for the many wonderful moments I get to experience with my horses and passengers. The most important thing is not to get stressed. As long as I am fit, I will continue to do my job and share this unique experience in Damüls with others.
Thank you very much for the interview!
