Two souls, one passion

Denise and Matze have already individually travelled to many parts of the world - Europe, Florida, New York, Japan, Indonesia, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. And yet they are always drawn to a very specific destination on their personal map: to Tyrol, in the Alps. "It’s because we feel safe here, the world is still okay and we feel like we're coming home for a while," both agree.

The couple got to know each other as teenagers in a disco in Bielefelds. Their initial long-distance relationship developed into a deep bond, which culminated in a romantic wedding in 2013. Their common hobby, sport, has never been neglected while on holiday. Be it skiing in Winter or hiking and mountain biking in Summer, both enjoy pushing themselves to the limit and setting themselves new challenges. This Summer the challenge is called "KAT Walk“. The long-distance hike, known as the catwalk of the Alps, takes hikers to the most beautiful locations of the Kitzbüheler Alps. In either five or six stages, you are immersed in the Tyrolean lifestyle, the nature of the mountains and get to know, step by step, their special features and secrets. Genuine, perceptible, honest and authentic.

“We like the city in which we live but we are just as happy in the mountains,“ agrees the young couple. “As soon as we are in the mountains, we immediately switch-off mentally from the office. The route to the summit is all that matters. Even when we sometimes ask ourselves why we do this in the first place, and then collapse exhausted into bed at night, these are the moments of happiness made possible when you have reached your goal.” The summit doesn’t necessarily have to be one of the most beautiful of those on the KAT Walk – moreover, it’s the route to it that counts. Passing blooming Alpine roses, crossing cultivated meadows where cows graze contentedly, continuing to rustic mountain huts for a well-earned rest and refreshments – that’s all the couple need. “It’s not the consumption we are looking for but the nature that totally fulfils us.”

Long distance hiking is the kind of activity which allows Denise and Matze to both decelerate and ground themselves. “When I have laced up my boots, put my rucksack on my back, set my hiking poles to the right length, I’m as good as on my way. Then I let nature speak to me and don’t even think about what’s happening in the office right now”, says Matze.

On the KAT Walk itself, both enjoy the comfort, that has already been organised and you don’t have to concern yourself about anything. “At the time of booking, you get an overview of your accommodation and the stages. You know exactly what you need so it isn't necessary to invest much time in organising. A simple phone call or an email suffices and your holiday can begin immediately – we find that very pleasant”, both explain their choice. “The accommodations are very comfortable. There’s a big difference in having your own room in the evening or sharing a dormitory with ten other people. The luggage service literally takes a load off our backs and the comforts are a pleasure. In addition, the food is delicious. The Tyrolean specialities together with the hospitality of the landlords makes it all so homely. The down-to-earth attitude which has been maintained over the years is precious - we really appreciate that.”