Ski Resorts Remain Open As Austria Goes into Third National Lockdown
25th December 2020
Last modified on May 13th, 2021
They opened on Xmas Eve but now come under tighter restrictions. Outdoor exercise is allowed, though in resort most of the facilities remain closed. UPDATED
Ski resorts across Austria opened on December 24th and we reported on the opening on Xmas Eve, Austria Ski Resorts Open for Locals Only.
Two days later and the country is back in lockdown.
Ski resort can stay open, but they will be for locals only and strict regulations will be in place.
In Styria, ski resorts will measure the temperature of skiers – although the measure will be voluntary.
“Despite all the discussions of the last few days: We have received a lot of positive feedback that people can finally ski”, said a statement from the Salzburg lift operators.
In the resorts there are additional, extensive minimum requirements, such as the mandatory wearing of FFP2 masks in cable cars and capacity restrictions for gondolas.
Outdoor sports such as cross-country skiing and ice skating are allowed.
The authorities add that “outdoor exercise is strongly recommended”.
From December 26th people are only allowed to leave their own living area for the following reasons: work/training, covering basic needs, helping others, and outdoor sports/recreation.
The ski resorts will look very different though with hotels, restaurants, bars, ski schools, rental shops and many other facilities shut.
“From December 26th trade and body-close service providers must close again until at least January 18th 2021,” said the government.
Then mass testing is due to take place.
“On the weekend before January 18th there will be mass tests. For all those who do not take part in the tests, the lockdown rules apply until January 24th”
From January 18th, weekly tests will also take place for certain specific professions.
From January 18th “Tourism and holidays in Austria should also be possible” said the new rules with a negative test for covid-19 required.
Innsbruck airport. Photo Credit, PlanetSKI
Since December 19th there has been a 10-day quarantine requirement in place, when entering Austria from risk areas.
All countries with a 14-day incidence per 100,000 inhabitants above 100 are considered as risk areas.
The UK is therefore considered a risk area with a 14-day number of 348.
Ending the of quarantine earlier is possible after five days of quarantine providing a negative PCR or antigen test at your own expense.
Austria’s federal states also have the power to introduce stricter rules should they consider them appropriate.
The resort of Ischgl remains closed and has decided not to open until the second half of January.
Others are open:
