Dec. 5, 2024
With impeccable timing, the temperatures dropped, and the snow systems rolled in. Over the last two weeks, there has been a steady accumulation of snow in the eastern Alps, with more and more resorts opening for the season.
Yesterday saw the opening of the Arlberg ski region. A bit gusty and with snow showers, locals flocked to the snow, assuming that when guests descend on St Anton et al. in the coming weeks, fun on the snow will be limited.
Today saw more settled weather and picture-postcard skies for those on the snow. Around one-third of the ski lifts are currently open, and this number will rapidly expand as further sectors are opened. It is only really this early in the winter season that the slopes of the Arlberg can be so wonderfully empty. This weekend should see a large influx of regional skiers and snowboarders, and beyond that, workers will be arriving along with holidaymakers. The empty pistes of the Arlberg will be short-lived.
There have been no further lift developments over the summer, but one significant opening will be the Arlberg Hospiz in St Christoph. This truly iconic hotel has undergone a multi-year renovation and is set to reopen this month. Many familiar with Arlberg skiing will have dined in their celebrated mountain hut on the slopes of St Christoph, but fewer will have stayed in their 5-star hotel just over the road. We hope to be able to bring you an update on the reopening in the coming weeks.