DECEMBER 2022 – The announcement was: “We’re celebrating Christmas in the Winter Wonderland of the Ore Mountains.” And just like that, we found ourselves at the foot of Fichtelberg, ready to enjoy Saxony's thinnest air and good company, benefiting both our lungs and liver.
Desiring a rustic experience, we moved with all our belongings into Waldeck. Here, we were greeted by warm and invigorating hosts who provided us with initial engaging conversations and information regarding potential activities.
We were surrounded by images of winter athletes whom the region had produced during GDR times and who had made Olympic history.
In such pleasant company, amidst a charming Ore Mountains ambiance and with well-prepared hot beverages, we were able to discuss our athletic highlights for the day. We were in high spirits, and the equipment had already been rented.
However, cross-country skiing proved too strenuous for us. And downhill skiing was too perilous – after all, most of us are no longer in our prime. Consequently, we opted for horn sleds and headed to the cable car, which was to transport us to the summit of Fichtelberg. Indeed, we could have ascended on foot, but we had been comfortably seated indoors for too long – and we needed to prioritize, as we also wanted ample time later for refreshments.
Upon reaching the summit, we gasped for air, as an icy wind was blowing, which could only be defied with a hot spirit. The initial technical devices ceased functioning and were securely stowed close to our bodies to prevent damage from falls. Car keys, wallets, and other items prone to being misplaced were entrusted to Wiebke, with the collective confidence that she would safely reach the bottom. Indeed, much can transpire over a 1740m stretch.
The initial undulations surprised even the most seasoned among us, and some turns caught us off guard despite warnings. However, in the snow, everyone automatically reverts to childhood. And then the nearly 2 km passed so quickly that everyone wished for “one more time!”
The final steep turn led us into the PRIJUT 12 refuge. Here, we found warmth, people in snowsuits, and, naturally, liquid sustenance. While the ladies were still handling the sled rental and inadvertently lingered at a confectionery before Grandma's coffee spread, the gentlemen were already concerned – for the Christmas dinner at Waldeck awaited us.
We had not intended to exchange many gifts this year – but as is often the case. Then one discovers an old VR headset here and an old iPod Shuffle there, and before you know it, the entire table is laden with 'junk gift exchange' presents.
The night had passed, the breakfast buffet had been depleted, and the initial liters of coffee had been consumed, whereupon we embarked on a cautious small winter hike. We were still somewhat recuperating from our peak athletic performances of the previous day. However, the crunch of snow beneath our shoes and a few sunbeams on our faces provided a delightful conclusion to our brief stay in the Ore Mountains.
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