Verbier Announces Early Closure Of Bruson Sector

Verbier has announced the earliy closure of the Bruson sector due to falling numbers as a result of Covid. In a statement Laurent Vaucher, CEO of Téléverbier SA said:

"While winter 2020–21 is not yet over, an initial assessment can already be made of this season that has been overshadowed by coronavirus. Thanks to the snowfall and our state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment, we were able to open our ski area on 31 October 2020 to the delight of winter sports fans. Despite opening early, this season has proven extremely challenging.

"The implementation of all the protective measures in place – such as the wearing of face masks, social distancing of 1.5 metres and capacity limits in closed vehicles – has shown that COVID-19 does not spread in ski areas. However, these protective measures entail additional extraordinary costs in terms of human resources, logistics and equipment. The health crisis is having a negative impact on the number of visitors to our ski area. Compared with previous seasons, there has been a significant decline owing to the notable absence of foreign visitors. The closure of catering facilities has also had a major impact on our company.

 "As a result, we have been forced to take cost-saving measures. We planned to keep the Bruson sector open daily until the evening of Monday, 5 April 2021. After analysing the situation, we wish to inform you that this sector will be closed for the rest of the season from the evening of Sunday, 7 March 2021.

"This was not an easy decision. It is an extraordinary measure in response to an extraordinary situation. Despite the current circumstances, the Téléverbier Board of Directors has decided to continue with its investment roadmap.

"The following projects will be implemented during 2021:

"Replacement of the Médran 1 lift with a new ten-seat cable car which will double the capacity between Médran and Les Ruinettes.

"Repair of the snowmaking equipment between Le Lac des Vaux and Les Ruinettes. This will enable better use of the cold periods to increase the guarantee of skiing from the start of December.

"Provided all the required permits are obtained, significant investment is also planned in the near future, such as the renewal of the La Pasay ski lift and the construction of a ski lift in Chargerat in 2022 in the Bruson sector. The restaurant in La Pasay will also be upgraded to welcome more guests in a magnificent setting."

We hope you enjoy the end of the season and wish to remind you to comply with the preventative measures to protect your own health and that of your loved ones.