Ski operations no longer set to commence in Ischgl this winter

After the Austrian governmental press conference which lacked any medium-term prospects for tourism, the 20/21 winter season in Ischgl has now definitively been cancelled. The committee and supervisory board at Silvrettaseilbahn AG arrived at this joint decision yesterday.

'It was, and is, essential for us that no unnecessary risk be taken, after all the health of guests, staff and locals is the top priority. Unfortunately the pre-conditions for commencing border-spanning ski operations in the Silvretta Arena have gradually deteriorated in the past few weeks; in view of the still worrisome occurrences of infection, tightened travel restrictions and a lack of prospects for opening measures for the hotel and catering sector, commencing ski operations is less tenable than ever. There was no alternative than to make a decision to no longer continue with the winter season', emphasised Markus Walser and Günther Zangerl, Executive Managers at Silvrettaseilbahn AG. Extensive investment and plans with regard to health and safety standards were painstakingly put in place for the season, nonetheless this winter there will not be one day of skiing in Ischgl.

Winter 20/21 with no ski operations in Ischgl
The differing regulations in Austria and Switzerland have made it impossible to open the cross-border ski area from Ischgl to – the still opened – Swiss Samnaun region. This difficulty has again intensified in the last few weeks, emphasise those involved. In this joint ski area, no fewer than eleven cable car facilities end right at the state border. Differing regulatory requirements in Austria and Switzerland, along with uncertainties still linked to the pandemic, have meant that confidence has waned ever more in the past weeks. The latest policy announcements regarding commencement of ski operations this winter have now finally made all requisite preparations by Silvrettaseilbahn AG unrealistic.

Winter sports experiences in Paznaun still assured
'It does of course break our hearts that in view of the perfect snow and piste conditions, and the dreamy weather this winter, that we are unable to welcome guests. At the same time it was a core objective for us in the valley to provide a comprehensive range of winter sports for locals', explains Alexander von der Thannen, representative from Paznaun – Ischgl tourist association. Therefore, in Paznaun over the nest few weeks, winter sports experiences will continue to be available in the See, Kappl and Galtür ski areas. The trails between Ischgl and Galtür, along with the winter hiking paths that are tended by the Paznaun – Ischgl tourist association, will remain open.

In Ischgl, we are already looking toward the summer season, and also the next winter season for 21/22, which will start on 25th November. 'It is clear that people are yearning for travel and a holiday in the mountains. The Paznaun landscape and its wonderful mountain backdrop offers our guests an ideal setting to enjoy unique holiday experiences', said the representative by way of conclusion.

More information available at www.ischgl.com.