Despite lack of snow: Fichtelberg gets new chairlift

The long-awaited construction of a new ski lift on the Fichtelberg has begun. "We have announced the start of construction and completed the first preparatory measures," Constantin Gläß, Managing Director of Fichtelberg Schwebebahn, told the German Press Agency. However, it will still be some time before the modern six-seater chairlift takes skiers up the sky ladder. "The whole project will take two years." Therefore, completion is not expected until December 2027 at the earliest, explained Gläß.

The lifts in Saxony's largest alpine ski resort are no longer up to date. In addition to the historic aerial tramway and a four-seater chairlift, skiers are mainly dependent on T-bar lifts. Modernization has therefore been under consideration for years. However, the municipal company lacked the money and the prospect of corresponding subsidies. Fichtelberg Schwebebahn GmbH was therefore sold to the Gläß family of entrepreneurs this year. They are already commercially active on the mountain and operate the existing chairlift, the hotel on the summit and other attractions such as the "Othal Coaster" summer toboggan run, which can be used all year round.

Investments in the double-digit million range

The new lift on the Himmelsleiter already had planning permission, which would have expired at the end of this year. Investments in the lift, snowmaking systems and reservoir in the "double-digit million range" are planned, as Gläß said. He is hoping for funding for this, but has not yet received any commitments. According to him, the long construction period is due to the fact that some work can only be carried out at certain times.

Gläß is also aiming to make changes to the race course - the black ski slope under the suspension railroad. The aim is to enlarge the slope so that larger competitions, including a World Cup, can be held here in future despite the supports of the suspension railroad. However, approval is not expected for another two to three years.

When will this year's ski season start?

Despite the new lift being built, skiers won't have to do without the slopes on the Himmelsleiter for the time being - if there is snow. So far, however, this has been a long time coming on the Fichtelberg. The opening of the season, originally planned for the 3rd weekend in Advent, had to be called off. Skiing will also not be possible in Oberwiesenthal over the Christmas period. "We hope that we will be able to make snow again around Christmas," said Gläß. "With a lot of luck, we'll be able to ski on New Year's Day." However, this depends on how the weather develops until then.