Management & Tourism, Planning & Construction
Smartly staged mountain scenery
Since September 2023, construction has been underway at the Dachstein (Austria) at an altitude of 2,700 meters. The renovation and redesign of the mountain station lasted until May 2024.
Existing attractions were enhanced, and new ones were created, such as a large visitor terrace and the “Sky ladder“ as a new glass-bottomed viewing highlight. Reason enough for an interview with Georg Bliem, CEO of Planai-Hochwurzen-Bahnen.
SI: What were the reasons for the reconstruction?
Georg Bliem: We began considering how to redesign the aging mountain station seven years ago. Detailed preparations started two years ago. Construction began on September 6, 2023.
To what extent does the project encompass existing attractions?
The new building structure, featuring a lot of glass and stone, is designed to bring the majestic Dachstein landscape indoors. Together with Ars Electronica Solutions, we are highlighting panoramic views even more impressively. In the Ice Palace, the Universalmuseum Joanneum is creating new areas that also address climate change and glacier transformation.
Georg Bliem
CEO Planai-Hochwurzen Bahnen
What new attractions you created?
At the peak of the mountain station, a large visitor terrace was being built, along with the twelve-step Sky ladder extending beyond the southern walls with a glass bottom. Also new are a restaurant terrace and a café lounge. Additionally, a conference room was being created.
What about the restaurant?
The restaurant area offers a central 280-degree view of the magnificent alpine nature. Special features include a huge Dachstein stone in the center and a large mountaineer‘s table. A separate buffet area with show kitchen is being created for sunrise breakfast and sunset fondue.
Sky ladder
extending beyond the southern walls with a glass bottom.
Where do most visitors move around?
The visitor area with attractions is located in or near the mountain station and is no more than a hundred meters away.
What easy hiking trails are available?
For hikers wanting to go to the Seethalerhütte glacier, we offer a groomed, daily monitored panoramic trail. It is eight meters wide, and the walking time is one hour.
Ski operations were discontinued in 2023. What is the focus now?
We are emphasizing experiencing nature, the panorama, and the glacier. We see great potential for this even in winter. And because we no longer have ski operations, more space is available for cross-country skiing
Dachstein Gletscherbahn Ramsau
Variety of offerings
- Low-threshold experience offers at 2,700 Meters: Located in or immediately near the mountain station.
- Glacier hiking opportunities free from alpine dangers.
- Alpine tours that are attractive and sometimes demanding.
- Cross-country skiing and ski touring offers on the glacier.
Facts
- Cable car operation since 1969: 8.9 million first entries
- Renovation/reconstruction of mountain station: 2023/2024.
- Average stay duration: 3 hours.
- New features: Visitor terrace. sky ladder (12 steps, glass floor, extending 4.8 meters beyond the building edge). Panorama restaurant with terrace (over 200 indoor and over 100 terrace seats). Café lounge. Conference room (up to 70 p.)
- Discontinuation of ski operations: 2023.
- Alpine cross-country skiing/ski touring training center.
- Special trips: For sunrise and sunset, etc.
- Opening times: Year-round with maintenance breaks in spring and late autumn.
What role do summit tours to the Hoher Dachstein play?
There is immense interest in climbing the summit. We recommend going with a mountain guide for safety reasons and because guides provide knowledge about the landscape, glaciers, and Hallstatt culture.
Is it true that there is a visitor limit?
Yes. We do not allow more than 2,500 people per day on the mountain and manage this through our online reservation system.
Interview: Oliver Pichler
