Positive Winter For Swiss Ski Areas

The first reports from Swiss ski resorts in March are comparable to those in February - the numbers remain positive. Across Switzerland, March recorded an increase of 5% compared to the previous year. This is a positive signal, considering the special and sometimes problematic weather conditions. Like February, March was too warm. There are also striking regional differences in first-time entries.

The ski areas were only able to benefit to a limited extent from the fact that the Easter holidays fell early at the end of March. In terms of weather, March was marked by numerous violent foehn storms and heavy rainfall. After all, the Easter days south of the Alps were very humid and wet. Many ski areas had to stop operations for several days due to strong winds.

Given all these weather-related inadequacies, it is all the more surprising that a positive development among first-time entries continued in March. This shows that guests continue to enjoy the warmer temperatures in March, the still great snow conditions as well as the high quality of the slopes and the many events. The “snow-sure” winter destinations at higher altitudes can offer this offer in particular.

Regional differences

There were also major regional differences in March: in the Jura, all ski areas were closed again in March. In the Bernese Oberland, strong foehn storms forced operators to partially or completely close their facilities on three weekends (including Easter) for safety reasons. Ticino, on the other hand, was able to benefit from March, attracting numerous guests - except at Easter.

Comparison with the 5-year average

If you look at the frequencies of the entire winter so far with the 5-year average, there have been 4% more guests in the ski areas across Switzerland this season. Valais, Graubünden and eastern and central Switzerland developed particularly positively. The development in the Bernese Oberland, the Vaud Alps and the Jura is negative. (see Fig. 2).

While many ski areas are ceasing operations these days, higher-altitude ski areas can still enjoy the best piste conditions. Berno Stoffel, director of Cable Cars Switzerland, is confident that with the new large amounts of snow and the many festivals, many more guests will find their way to the ski areas in April.