Sölden - 70 Million Euros For The Next Leap In Quality On The Mountain

From digital booking to AI-supported operational safety, from the cable car experience to the pioneering connecting axis between the central ski mountains: Sölden's ski area is receiving a comprehensive modernization boost this winter season. The investment volume for 2025 amounts to over 70 million euros. The Sölden mountain lifts are thus consistently investing in quality and comfort – with a clear focus on the needs and the overall experience of their guests.

Factbox

• New facilities: 8-seater chairlifts Einzeiger (4,000 p/h) & Silberbrünnl (3,800 p/h)
• Piste connection: 2 km between valley runs 7 and 22, > 2 ha of new piste area
• Digitalization: New webshop with dynamic pricing & modern slope guidance system
• Sustainability: Photovoltaic project at the Tiefenbach Glacier
• Internationality: Epic Pass – 5 days of skiing in Sölden included (80+ partner resorts worldwide)
• Regionality: Benefit programs for Tyroleans (TIWAG, IKB, Raiffeisen banks)

The centerpiece of this year's investments is the new ski run connecting valley runs 7 (Gaislachkogl) and 22 (Giggijoch). For the first time, it creates a direct ski connection between the two main access points to the ski area – setting a new standard for reaching desired destinations within the village. As a result, all of Sölden's key locations are now connected without the need for a car or ski bus and can be easily reached on skis. This reduces traffic congestion within the village while simultaneously increasing safety and comfort. "We are creating a new axis within the ski area that is far more than just a connection. This organic mobility solution naturally takes skiers to their desired destination and thus positively transforms the entire village," explains Philipp Falkner, authorized signatory of the Sölden cable car company. "This is another step in further developing Sölden as a modern, well-planned ski resort," Falkner adds.

An additional benefit: The new route creates a wind-stable ski area in the valley, which can remain open even in bad weather at higher elevations. This means winter sports enthusiasts will find attractive and safe slopes even on stormy days.

New tracks, more comfort

Two new lifts underscore Sölden's claim as a leading destination for cable car technology. The new 8-seater Einzeiger chairlift gives the existing access route to the glacier ski area a modern upgrade: more comfort, more capacity, more quality. With a travel time of just 3.5 minutes, weather protection hoods, child safety bars, and an automatic conveyor belt, it offers maximum comfort and transports up to 4,000 people per hour.

At Giggijoch, the new Silberbrünnl cable car, with a capacity of 3,800 people per hour, significantly increases capacity. Its AI-supported monitoring systems detect potential hazards early and enhance operational safety. Both systems contribute to a more even distribution of visitors, further reducing waiting times.

Digital services and new customer journey

In parallel with the infrastructure development, the digital service offering was redesigned. The new webshop with dynamic pricing rewards early bookers with lower fares and enables time-saving, contactless ticket processing.

A piste guidance system developed by the mountain lifts, featuring large-format orientation panels and realistic panoramic maps, simplifies navigation within the ski area. "The focus is always on the mountain experience," emphasizes Jakob Falkner, Managing Director of the Sölden mountain lifts. With their 2025 investment initiative, the Sölden mountain lifts are reaffirming their role as an innovation leader in the industry – and as a driving force for sustainable quality development in Tyrolean tourism. "Our investments follow a clear objective: We want to continuously improve the interplay of comfort, service, and overall experience, thereby offering our guests significant added value," says Jakob Falkner.

Energy future and international stage

A model photovoltaic project is currently being built at the Tiefenbach Glacier. Following the test phase, it will be expanded into a large-scale system by 2026, which will cover part of the mountain's electricity needs with solar energy.

Furthermore, Sölden is strengthening its international visibility: Since this season, the ski resort has been part of the Vail Resorts Epic Pass – a global network of 80 top destinations. Epic Pass holders enjoy five days of skiing in Sölden, while the winter sports resort itself benefits from new international reach.

Affordable skiing as a concern

Despite significant investments, skiing remains affordable for Tyroleans: Through collaborations with TIWAG, IKB, the Tyrolean Family Pass, and Tyrolean Raiffeisen banks, locals continue to benefit from discounted ski passes and loyalty programs. This underscores the Sölden mountain lifts' commitment to preserving winter sports as an integral part of the region's quality of life.