Carinthia's Ski Areas Ready For The Christmas Holidays

New lifts, targeted programs for schools, and numerous attractions are expanding the offerings in Carinthia's ski resorts, which are starting the winter season with high expectations. Simonhöhe boasts a modern children's area, night skiing, and a Snowboard World Cup, while Saualm offers "Uphill Tobogganing"—also at night. At the same time, ski rentals continue to grow in importance, although purchasing skis still plays a significant role.

The upcoming Christmas holidays are further raising expectations in Carinthia's ski resorts. Many Carinthians are planning to spend their time off on the slopes. The mood among the cable car operators is correspondingly positive. By the end of the pre-sale (December 8, 2025) for the Carinthian ski pass, a total of 30,805 season passes had been sold. Josef Bogensperger, head of the ski association, is pleased with the start of the season: "The pre-sale of the Carinthian ski pass confirms the strong desire to ski. Our businesses are well prepared and are looking forward to full slopes and a strong winter tourism season."

New social mobility aids in Carinthia

This season, guests will again benefit from extensive investments in modern cable car technology. At Katschberg, the existing Aineck 3-seater chairlift has been replaced by a new, energy-efficient gondola lift. It transports winter sports enthusiasts quickly and comfortably to an altitude of 2,220 meters. At Nassfeld, a new lift also recently went into operation: the modern 10-seater Gartnerkofel gondola replaces the previous 4-seater chairlift and significantly increases both transport capacity and ride comfort. Bogensperger adds: "These investments underscore the long-term focus of Carinthian ski resorts on quality and sustainability."

Focus on young talent: Skiing for schools is practically free.

A key focus for the industry remains the promotion of young skiers. In cooperation with the state of Carinthia, Carinthian cable car companies are offering a comprehensive school ski program. Primary schools can enjoy a free day of skiing, including a free day pass, between January 12th and 16th, 2026; registration is still possible. In addition, a heavily discounted 3-day ski package is available for €21. Winter sports weeks for older students also remain a regular feature. A ski pass for a five-day ski course is available for just €11 per day during these winter sports weeks. "With these offers, we want to give as many children and young people as possible access to skiing," says Bogensperger.

Sporting goods retail: Rent or buy?

The sporting goods retail sector is also poised for takeoff. A clear trend is emerging: ski rentals are gaining in importance and now significantly outpace sales. Christian Tyl, spokesperson for the sporting goods retail sector at the Carinthian Chamber of Commerce, comments on current market developments: "Rentals are booming, especially in ski resorts. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to test the latest equipment. While purchasing remains important, the trend is clearly shifting towards rentals."

Simonhöhe: New Winter Experiences for Families.

Smaller ski resorts are increasingly focusing on innovation and a diverse range of experiences. One example is Simonhöhe, where targeted investments have significantly expanded its offerings. "The children's area has been comprehensively modernized. Two magic carpets, including a new 100-meter carpet, as well as slalom and practice areas, provide ideal conditions for beginner skiers. Our offerings are complemented by night skiing events (December 26, 2025, January 16, 2026, and February 13, 2026 – each from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.) and the FIS Snowboard World Cup on January 23 and 24, 2026," explains Paul Kogler, Managing Director of Simonhöhe.

Saualm: Uphill by toboggan

The Saualm proves that winter fun doesn't have to be limited to skiing. This season, the Eberstein Ski Club's "BergAufRodeln" (Uphill Tobogganing) is back again. Forty toboggans with special hitches are pulled uphill by a lift, offering this unique snow experience, which can also be enjoyed as night tobogganing with advance booking.

Outlook

The Carinthian cable car operators are looking ahead to the coming weeks with confidence, especially to the upcoming Christmas holidays. "With modern lifts, strong offers for families and schools, new attractions, and a particularly high level of enthusiasm for skiing among the population, nothing stands in the way of a successful winter season," Bogensperger concluded.