More than just a mascot, the Saanen breed is just one of the many fellow species with whom we share this beautiful landscape – especially in the summer, when we aremost likely to encounter one high up at 2,000 metres and beyond. 

But as this hectic season winds down, I for one am looking forward to catching up on some much-needed R & R – Rest and Randonnée. First, a quick look at what might be our wildest edition yet

 

It’s a zoo in here

In this issue, journalist J. Piromallo talks to Saanenland resident Alessandra Vicedomini, who heads up a family business built on the most exclusive luxury goats can produce – they don’t call her the Queen of Cashmere for nothing.

In our Profile interview, the Gstaad Palace’s Andrea Scherz gives us the lowdown on how he earned his crown (hint: the hard way). But running a legendary hotel is no joke for this Scherz – it’s a lifetime commitment. His kingdom for a horse? He’s not likely to abdicate anytime soon, but perhaps for a polo pony?

No summer in the Saanenland would be complete without the spectacular Hublot Polo Gold Cup. This year’s matches saw the sport’s famous ponies get hot to trot; champion Team Gstaad Palace’s last-minute goals made 2013 one of the most thrilling tournaments in the event’s two decade history here. 

But polo isn’t the only animal-related summer event here in the Saanenland. Dog lover Tess Larosse tells us all about the Canine Alpine Challenge, a fun and furry hike up Wasserngrat with our four-legged friends. All proceeds go to charity and are used to help find loving homes for stray dogs in need.

 

Betting the farm on it

If iconic dairy farms dotting the Swiss hillsides are more your cup of tea, read about aspiring cowgirl Andrea Clarkson’s attempt at leading cows up to their summer alpine grazing areas. But if you’re looking for real cowgirls, you’ll have to wait until September 20^th to 22^nd, when Country Night Gstaad hosts a three-day honky-tonk extravaganza. 

Last but not least, columnist M. Theodoracopulos takes on organic farming in You Are Where You Eat. From fresh herbs to pickled vegetables, she does it all – and lets us know exactly why you should, too. 

 

The summer of 2013 and beyond

As your official zookeeper, I’d like to thank you, our readers, for your support during this summer season. GSTAADLIFE has seen quite a few changes in its print edition, changes we hope you’ve come to appreciate over the past few months. Our traditional off-season lasts through November, when our first issue of the winter will arrive. 

This year, however, we aim to keep you well-fed, even during Gstaad’s lean months. You’ll find all the news that’s fit to print on our website www.gstaadlife.com instead, where you can receive daily updates delivered straight to your inbox. What’s more, we’ll spend the fall tailoring a newly designed platform to make your GSTAADLIFE experience more user-friendly than ever.

Until we meet again – and the cows come home – enjoy the good life as it’s only experienced here in the Saanenland. 

 

Best regards,

Alexis Munier

Editor in Chief