Updated 16.11.2021
Even before the Austria-wide 2G regulation, strict safety precautions were declared for the winter start in Ischgl from 25 November. Nevertheless, in view of the current developments, there is a conscious desire not to take any risks, so the decision has now been taken unanimously to cancel the traditional Top of the Mountain Opening Concert. The focus around the start of winter will now be entirely on skiing.
The health of guests, staff and locals has top priority - the people in charge continue to adhere to this principle at the start of this winter season. In the run-up to winter 21/22 in Ischgl, a comprehensive package of safety and health measures was put together which, together with the legal requirements, guarantees the greatest possible safety for guests, staff and locals. In particular, the strictest safety guidelines have also been laid down for the Top of the Mountain Opening Concert. However, due to the worsening pandemic, the opening concert with Il Volo and Alice has been cancelled in order to avoid any potential danger from the outset.
Alcohol ban in public places and parking bans at night
During the entire winter season there is a ban on alcohol in public places in Ischgl. To ensure compliance with this regulation, the municipality, together with the Paznaun - Ischgl Tourist Association and the Ischgl Tourist Business Association, has commissioned additional security guards. In addition, a general parking ban from 7:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. has been imposed on all Silvrettaseilbahn AG car parks for this winter. Consequently, coaches must depart by 7:30 pm at the latest. A local police ordinance also prohibits the serving of alcohol, an installation of barbecue stations, or party-like gatherings in the area of the four Silvrettaseilbahn AG car parks.
Uniform measures in the Silvretta Arena
After intensive consultations, the partner companies Silvrettaseilbahn AG and Bergbahnen Samnaun AG have also agreed in an act of solidarity on joint COVID 19 measures in the cross-border Silvretta Arena ski area. This means that ski passes for the Silvretta Arena may in principle only be issued to vaccinated or recovered persons. The 2G rule will therefore apply to cross-border skiing in the Silvretta Arena from the start of the season. In addition to the current official requirements, Silvrettaseilbahn AG also recommends wearing an FFP2 mask or mouth/nose protection in the feeder lifts and at the ticket sales points.
Comprehensive safety measures for the entire winter season
Those responsible at Silvrettaseilbahn AG have spared no effort before the season to ensure the safest possible start to the winter and have invested around 700,000 euros in safety and hygiene measures. For example, new camera and software systems are used to optimise the queuing areas at the three feeder lifts. This means that waiting times can be passed on to guests in real time as valuable information via the iSki Ischgl app. Extensive disinfection measures are also undertaken - all cable car cabins are regularly disinfected using cold fogging equipment. The same method is used daily in the ski buses as well as in sports shops, ski depots, WC facilities, lift cabins and the first aid stations. Cleaning and disinfection activities are also intensified in the mountain restaurants. This applies, for example, to the cleaning or disinfection of tables and bar areas as well as handrails, door handles and sanitary facilities. In addition, the intervals between filter cleaning in ventilation systems were shortened and new partitions were installed in the seating areas of the restaurants in the ski area. This comprehensive safety package, as well as strict control and compliance with the legal framework conditions, is intended to ensure a maximally safe and relaxed winter experience.
Further information on the safety and hygiene measures currently in force for the Silvretta Arena: here
Furthermore, the Paznaun-Ischgl Tourist Association offers comprehensive information and training for local businesses throughout the winter and sends out regular newsletters and information updates on important current events.
Further information at www.ischgl.com.