Ischgl Issues its Covid-19 Safety Measures for Next Winter

20th October 2021

Last modified on October 25th, 2021

The Austrian resort is aiming to be one of the safest resorts in the Alps in a post-pandemic ski world.

“In the coming winter season, we want to continue to do our utmost to play our part as responsible hosts by ensuring comprehensive health and safety standards,” said Alexander von der Thannen, chairman of the Paznaun – Ischgl Tourist Association.

“The aim is to be one of the safest destinations in the Alpine region for our guests”.

Ischgl has been seen as one of the resorts in the Alps that acted as a super-spreader of Covid-19 back in March 2020.

It became the focus of international media attention for its contribution to the spreading of coronavirus.

Many other ski resorts played a similar role and Ischgl has been trying to restore its reputation ever since.

Ischgl sets out to rebuild image and reputation after Covid-19

Apres ski in Ischgl. Image © PlanetSKI

For the coming winter the lift company in Ischgl has invested around €700,000 in hygiene measures.

It has installed new ‘intelligent’ camera systems on the three cable cars in Ischgl, which optimise waiting times in the queuing areas by means of ‘density measurements and mobility analysis’.

The shortened waiting times are displayed in real time via an app.

All cable car cabins are to be disinfected using cold fogging equipment to eliminate 99.99 percent of viruses, bacteria and spores in the cable car cabins.

The same method is also used in the ski buses every day, as well as in sports shops, ski depots, toilet facilities, lift cabins and the first aid stations.

The Paznaun Valley, where Ischgl is situated, was also one of the first regions to introduce wastewater monitoring, meaning they can identify possible clusters in advance.

“This comprehensive safety package, as well as strict monitoring and compliance with the legal Austrian framework, is intended to provide guests with a maximum safe and relaxed holiday experience,” said the resort.

See here for the full health details and measures in Ischgl

Austria is still waiting for the official regulation for the nationwide rules regarding this year’s winter skiing operation.

However, it can probably be assumed that a 3-G rule (tested, vaccinated, recovered) will apply in the ski area and that FFP2 masks will be compulsory for cable car rides.

FFP2 mask on the ski slopes of Austria

We have detailed the rules in Austria in this separate article on PlanetSKI:

Covid-19 ski holiday rules in Austria

The season starts on November 25th and the resort holds its traditional opening concert on November 27th.

It has an Italian theme this year with with Il Volo – internationally operatic acclaimed Italian vocal talents – and Italian singer, Alice, performing.