Renovation Work On Dachstein Mountain Station Begins
What is probably the highest construction site in Austria has opened as part of a kick-off event. The Dachstein Gletscherbahn mountain station will undergo extensive exterior and interior renovations in the coming months and will reopen in spring 2024 under the motto “Energy Crystal”. In addition to the Styrian state councilor Barbara Eibinger-Miedl, the mayor of Ramsau am Dachstein Ernst Fischbacher and the deputy mayor of Obertraun Bernhard Moser, Planai managing director Dir. Georg Bliem was also able to welcome representatives from business and construction companies to the kick-off.
“Since 1969, the mountain station has towered imposingly over the south face of the Dachstein massif. After more than 54 years, it is time to renovate the station to today's quality levels, particularly with a focus on sustainability. Today is the starting signal for this special construction site and I am already looking forward to a celebratory reopening in spring 2024,” says Planai Managing Director Dir. Georg Bliem. For project manager Reinfried Prugger, the conversion is anything but everyday work: “A construction site of this size and at this altitude is a major challenge for all of us. I would like to thank the planning and construction companies as well as our own employees for their commitment.
“The construction of the Dachstein mountain station was a great pioneering achievement. It is therefore all the more important to develop this special building carefully and sustainably for future generations. I know that this major project is in good hands with the Planai-Hochwurzen-Bahnen team,” said Styrian Tourism Councilor Barbara Eibinger-Miedl.
New Dachstein mountain station: focus on sustainability and “feel-good ambience”
A particular focus of the conversion is on photovoltaic cladding on the East, West and South side. A total of 338 modules with an area of 633 m² will be installed. With a maximum output of 125 kWp and an expected annual output of around 100,000 kWh/yr, it will be possible to generate up to 80% of the energy required for the mountain station itself.
Visitors can expect a wealth of innovations not only on the outside, but also inside the Dachstein mountain station. The restaurant has different areas and impresses with a breathtaking 280 degree view. With more than 230 seats, it offers enough space for guests. The use of natural materials such as loden, stone and wood is the focus of the interior design. These create a unique atmosphere and harmonize perfectly with the high alpine surroundings. A separate, separable buffet area with a show kitchen is created for the unforgettable sunrise breakfast and sunset fondue. In addition, a full-service restaurant concept will be implemented to provide guests with a first-class dining experience.
A new lounge is being built on the top level of the building, which, thanks to its location, offers an impressive view of the imposing southern walls of the Dachstein. The modern, high-alpine design creates an inviting environment where guests can enjoy small snacks and drinks indoors or on the outdoor terrace. In addition, a separate multi-purpose room will be created for seminars, incentives or events. This room is technically state-of-the-art and offers probably the highest event location in Styria and Upper Austria.
