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ItalianoUpdated on 02.02.2024
Even though the new "Wilde Krimml" connecting lift has already been transporting guests in the Zillertal Arena quickly and comfortably for around 2 months, those responsible were keen to hold an official opening ceremony, including the blessing of the new lifts. "The reorganisation of the connection between Zell and Gerlos is a milestone project - not only for the Zell cable cars, but for the entire region. The merger of the Zell-Gerlos-Königsleiten ski areas to form the Zillertal Arena in 1999 was the starting signal for a success story. The "Krimml-X-Press" connecting lift made this possible - but over the past decades, the lift has also caused us headaches time and again," says Franz Kranebitter, Managing Director, looking back on the beginnings of the Zillertal Arena.
At the highest and probably coldest point in the Zillertal Arena, the icy laps on the Krimml-X-Press lift were notorious. This is now a thing of the past, as the commissioning of the new 10-seater "Wilde Krimml" gondola lift at the start of the 2024 winter season marked the end of the second construction phase and, together with the Kapauns 8-seater chairlift, which went into operation last winter, has made commuting within the Zillertal Arena faster and more comfortable. The total investment in both projects amounts to around 28 million euros.
Energy-saving drive & viewing platform at 2,500 m
During the planning phase, not only was state-of-the-art ropeway technology from LEITNER utilised and the LEITNER DIRECTDRIVE, a virtually silent and energy-saving drive system, but an architectural statement was also made in collaboration with the internationally renowned architectural firm Snøhetta. The new stations impress with their sleek design and not only create a state-of-the-art workplace for employees, but also a further highlight for all visitors: from the mountain station, there is a viewing platform at the highest point of the Zillertal Arena with a 360-degree panoramic view.
At the same time, an overall concept for the two mountain stations on the Übergangsjoch at 2,500 metres above sea level ensures a comprehensive experience for visitors. As the highest point, the Übergangsjoch offers far-reaching views and an unrivalled Alpine panorama. The spectacular view is showcased by an elongated viewing platform called "the long bench". Just below the Kreuzjoch, the highest mountain in the Kitzbühel Alps, "the long bench" invites you to enjoy the views and linger. In addition, three impressive sculptures by sculptor Magnus Pöhacker create a place of power around the "long bench".
"In terms of a sustainable and careful approach to nature, the focus on architecture was a particular concern for us," emphasises DI Franz Kranebitter, Managing Director of Zell Bergbahnen.
On Saturday, 27 January 2024, the two new lifts were blessed in glorious sunshine and celebrated in a festive setting together with partners, landowners and the construction companies involved. LH-Stv. ÖR Josef Geisler looked back on the historic past of the "Wilde Krimml" and the top cable car operator and colleague in the Zillertal Arena, NR Franz Hörl, was also delighted with the positive development in the region since the merger to form the Zillertal Arena.
FACTS 10-passenger gondola lift WILDE KRIMML
Wind-stable 10-passenger gondola lift with heated seats from LEITNERCarrying capacity: 2,400 passengers/hourAltitude difference at the bottom station: 2,065 mAltitude difference at the top station: 2,501 mAltitude difference: 436 mAltraction: 1,870 mSpeed: 6 m/sRide time: approx. 5 minutesFACTS 8-seater chairlift Kapauns
Detachable 8-seater chairlift with weather protection bonnet and seat heating from LEITNERCarrying capacity: 2,940 passengers/hourAltitude metres at the bottom station: 1,905 mAltitude metres at the top station: 2,502 mAltitude difference: 597 mInclined length: 1,829 mSpeed: 6 m/sRide time: approx. 5 minutes