Ski lift operators optimistic ahead of new season

The association's head Boštjan Paradiž has explained that following strong investments in infrastructure prior to last winter, ski resort operators have had more time this year to prepare programmes and organise, completing extensive maintenance work and all investment phases. "I think the working conditions and the foundation for this season are excellent."

While pointing to inflation and to the uncertain electricity cost structure due to a new network charge calculation system, he noted that the economic conditions in Slovenia do not allow for drastic increases in ski pass prices, as this would deter both domestic and foreign guests.

Ski centres will increase ski pass prices by an average of up to 5%, but Paradiž estimates that Slovenian ski resorts remain significantly more affordable compared to Austrian ones.

"I believe both domestic skiers and guests from nearby countries, such as Croatia, Hungary, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia, will see that we haven't overstepped and that Slovenia has great potential for skiing. We anticipate increased visits as a result," he added.

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia's most northwestern resort in the Julian Alps near the borders with Austria and Italy, remains one of the country's premier ski destinations. Known for hosting World Cup skiing events, it will offer adult day passes at EUR 47 this season.

Krvavec, located 25 kilometres from Ljubljana Airport in central Slovenia, has set its regular adult day pass at EUR 43. The resort, which typically offers one of the longest ski seasons in Slovenia due to its elevation (1,450-1,971m), plans to open in early December if weather permits.

Vogel, situated above Lake Bohinj in the heart of Triglav National Park, has just completed a major investment in a new cable car system. The resort will charge EUR 44 for regular adult day passes. Notably, it will continue its partnership with Kranjska Gora, offering joint ski passes for both resorts.

Mariborsko Pohorje, the largest single ski resort in Slovenia located near the country's second-largest city, Maribor, is introducing several improvements this season. The resort's operator Marprom has announced a redesigned children's area at Bellevue with a new conveyor belt and sledding area equipped with snow-making capabilities.

Rogla, situated in the more central part of the Pohorje mountains, has invested in a new automated snow-making system that will double the speed of slope coverage when temperatures permit. Following last year's installation of a new six-seat chairlift, the resort, also known for its cross-country skiing trails, will charge EUR 45 for regular adult day passes.

The Kope ski resort in the Carinthia region in the north is expanding its offering beyond skiing with an enhanced culinary experience and entertainment programme, including concerts throughout the season.

The situation meanwhile remains uncertain at Kanin, Slovenia's highest ski resort (2,292m) located on the country's border with Italy. The resort has been closed since autumn 2022 due to technical issues with its cable car system. Discussions are ongoing about potential public-private partnerships to revive the resort.

Most resorts are currently running pre-season ticket sales with discounted prices until late November, with regular season operations expected to begin in early December, weather permitting.