21 of us, British and French in almost equal number, gathered together in the dining room of Landhaus Lührmann in Austria for the The BN Winter Activity Group Holiday. There was the hum of two languages and another Parliamentary Brexit deal looming in the air, but we were standing and chatting, united by naturism.
Outside the snow came down hard during the week, perfect for the skiers and we were also blessed with bright Spring sunshine. This year half our party chose downhill skiing, while the rest experienced a mixture of cross-country skiing, walking, the spectacular mountain scenery, the picturesque village of Schladming, the fresh air, company of like-minded people, entertainment and, of course, the sauna, steam room and pool in the hotel’s own spa.
The hotel was completely naturist for the whole week - any activity could be done naked, including dining. Every day the group came together for the sumptuous breakfast buffet before getting ‘kitted up’ and being transported to the slopes; competent skiers took off, others took lessons, some went into Kulm to join the cross-country tracks, or to Schladming to shop, or stayed at base to relax in the facilities of the spa. A few even went for the ‘snow shoe’ option a couple of mornings for a snow hike. Later in the week, five of us ventured out to Therme Amadé spa 45 minutes away at Altermarkt where we immersed ourselves in hot tubs, pools and 10 different sauna infusions. A further group of us went again one evening to ‘spa under the stars’, as some of the heated pools are outside. This was a delightful and restful experience, calming minds and soothing aching muscles.
During the week we enjoyed the fun of a horse and sleigh ride, two wine tastings in the Lührmann family’s own cellar with specially chosen wine, hosted by the family son, Hans Georg. Granny Lührmann, Rosina, cooked three course dinners of high quality traditional Austrian fare every evening, which was gratefully received by the hungry ensemble who gathered to eat and discuss their day as well as planning for the next. Many attended Sheryn’s aquaerobics and stretch sessions in the late afternoons, so popular that additional sessions were added. Others relaxed in the sauna and steam rooms, and all joined Andrew’s after dinner evening quizzes, as well as other entertainment including an impromptu life drawing session run by one of our party, Jim. On the final night a music intro quiz led by Andrew fuelled frenetic singing and dancing, everyone joined in as much as they felt able to, the women took to the floor demonstrating a wonderful rendition of ‘YMCA’ whilst French and English partnered up to ‘rock around the clock’. All in all it was an exuberant way to finish our week.
It was difficult to believe that many of us had not even met just eight days before. Language barriers had been overcome, shared activities had been enjoyed and naturism had united us all.
Find all the other BN Members' holidays for 2019 here