The Centre is located in the Allgau area of Southern Bavaria, Germany. The nearest town is Sonthofen, 7 km along the valley. The larger town of Kempten is 20 km to the north and the nearest airports are Friedrichschafen to the west and Memmingen to the north, both are served by Ryan Air flying from Stansted. The terrain is Alpine in nature with high mountains rising to over 2500m and steep valleys. The area offers a wide variety of adventurous opportunities such as climbing, mountaineering, canoeing, mountain biking, white water rafting and skiing. Temperatures range from minus 20ºC during the winter months to plus 30ºC during mid summer.


Getting to the Centre

For those travelling by air there are a number of airports within reasonable driving distance. As already mentioned both Memmingen (approx 45 mins away) and Friedrichschafen (approx 1 ½ hours away) are both served by Ryan Air. Both airports have a railway station immediately outside with services running to Immenstadt and Sonthofen, the 2 nearest stations. KOMM MIT is a local coach company which will provide transport from Memmingen airport to Bad Hindelang, to obtain a quote call Karina on 0049 8321 67100. Stuttgart is 2 ½ hours north of us but immediately on the motorway.

For those of you intending to drive please be aware that we experience heavy snow and that appropriate tyres are strongly advised and required by German Law. That said the journey from Calais to Bad Hindelang is approximately 13 hours. AA route finder will offer you various options including toll roads; the cost is not prohibitive and is balanced by the lack of traffic and ease.

Insurance

It is strongly recommended that all have Personal Accident Insurance which will offer additional peace of mind and cover for “Off Duty activities and Acts of God”. All are also strongly advised to have European Health Insurance Cards, to register simply go to www.nhs , you will need to do this now in order to have your card in time. Recovery from the slopes is very expensive and a credit card or proof of insurance will be required at the time.

Medical

The hospital at Immenstadt will provide Accident and Emergency cover for the centre whilst operating in the immediate area. Routine medical matters will be dealt with by the local Doctor. Participants are reminded that medical care in Germany costs the user; therefore all participants are advised to have their EHIC and passport with them at all times. Individuals that incur medical costs will be responsible for paying prior to departure.

Accommodation

All participants will be accommodated at Haus Schwaben, the home of the NOCG, a Bavarian style lodge owned and run by an English couple, Tina and Chesty who are renowned for their hospitality. There is a licensed bar at the lodge. You will be provided breakfast and packed lunch (which you will make) and an evening meal, further details will be given on arrival. Not all rooms are en suit but we will endeavour to provide all with suitable accommodation taking into account party makeup. Rooms will be allocated on arrival. The centre has wi fi available for a minimal fee.

Hire of Equipment

For those requiring ski equipment a discounted rate has been arranged with a local provider (64 Euros for 5 day hire of ski/boots/poles). Hire has been arranged for Sun afternoon, there is scope to hire other equipment and more information is at hand on arrival.

Ski Instruction

Please notify us if you require ski instruction, the daily rate for an instructor is 140 Euros for up to 8 people per class. This will be arranged on the Sunday of your arrival.

Ski Passes

The Centre will provide you with ski passes for some of the local areas for free. If you require to use other areas then you will need to make your own arrangements, advice is on hand and daily snow reports will be at hand to help you decide where you want to ski.

Transport

For those bringing cars there is parking at the centre and Oberjoch, the nearest ski area is approximately 10 minutes away. There is a bus stop immediately outside the centre with a regular service to Oberjoch and a comprehensive bus service to other suitable areas. Further information will be provided on arrival.

Centre Facilities

The centre has a weights and CV gym, sauna, TV lounge with sky, a comprehensive DVD library, table tennis, washing machines all available for your use. There are a myriad of other recreational facilities on hand or within the local community and further information and advice will be on hand to help you make the most of your time at the NOCG. Chesty is open to providing additional entertainment (quiz, karaoke etc) in the week to suit your needs which can be organised on arrival.


Payment

This week is subsidised by the RN & RM Charties and you should all be members to enjoy the subsidised rate. The subsidy covers your food and accommodation provided by Haus Schwaben, ski passes and the facilities you use within the Centre. All other costs are your responsibility, you will be expected to settle your bills on leaving the Centre (on Sun 2 Jan 11).


Cost

Charges to families are rank ranged and are as follows;

Please note: Children over 16 will be charged adult rates.

Capacity is 34, this will provide flexibility to cater for different sized family groups.


How to Book

In order to apply for a place you firstly need to already be a member of the SABS scheme, then simply fill in the application form and return to office@nocg.co.uk or ring 0049 8324 2290. We are expecting to be oversubscribed and are looking to confirm places by the beginning of Nov 09 so please return your application form as soon as possible.

Our aim is to provide you with the facilities and local knowledge to make the most of your week in Bavaria. Please inform us immediately if you can no longer take up your places, late cancellation will result in a cancellation fee. If you require further information please feel free to ring us on 0049 8324 953540 or 0049 8324 2290. I look forward to meeting you all in person during your visit.

Paul Gellender

P S GELLENDER
Maj RM
Officer Commanding
NOCG