Austrian Regions End Season Early

Austrian regions are ending their season early due to the coronavirus epidemic.

After a meeting with representatives of Tyrolean tourism, it was decided  that the cable cars would be closed on Sunday, March 15, 2020, based on the Epidemic Act. Likewise, all accommodation facilities will be closed officially as of Monday, March 16, 2020. Monday was therefore chosen so that guests can return from the ski areas in an orderly manner. "The health of our guests, employees and the Tyrolean population is our top priority. This decision was not an easy one for us, but we take responsibility for all Tyroleans and for everyone who is in Tyrol, ”said Governor and Tourism Officer Günther Platt.

In some areas of Tyrol, the corona virus has spread rapidly in the past few days. The Paznaun Valley and St. Anton am Arlberg are particularly affected. For this reason, the following municipalities are now isolated: Ischgl, See, Kappl, Galtür and St. Anton am Arlberg. All locals, Austrian vacationers and staff of the local accommodation companies are subject to this traffic restriction. The best possible care in these communities is ensured. The isolation remains upright for 14 days. All departing guests from abroad are registered, they can leave with a form and pass through the set up checkpoints. An information sheet with clear instructions is given to foreign guests without a stopover and going to home quarantine at home and contacting the local health authority. The Austrian Ministry of Health also informs the respective home state of the foreign guests leaving.

In an open letter Salzburgerland said:

"Dear Guests,

"While having a special responsibility towards our guests and the population of Salzburg, on this Thursday evening we had to take further measures in order to put your health first along with limiting the ongoing spread of the Corona Virus.

"We have therefore decided to end the 2019/20 winter season.

"The skiing areas in SalzburgerLand have their last day of operation on Sunday 15th March, 2020. Moreover, all of the tourism operators in the federal state of Salzburg, such as hotels, B&Bs and other forms of accommodation will be closed from Monday 16th March, 2020 (last day of operation).

"These measures are carried out in close coordination between the authorities and the tourism boards of Salzburg."