Ski Resort News
11/06/2026
The 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski area in South Tyrol, Italy, is preparing for a major infrastructure upgrade ahead of the 2026/2027 winter season. The new HELMISSIMO 10-seater premium gondola in Versciaco will bring faster access to Monte Elmo (Helm), increase lift capacity and improve the overall skiing experience.

The project represents one of the most significant recent investments in the ski area's infrastructure, combining a modern cable car with improvements to the ski slopes and valley station facilities.
A New Generation of Gondola Lift
At the heart of the HELMISSIMO project is a modern 10-person gondola manufactured by LEITNER, one of the leading European ropeway technology companies.
The new installation will replace the existing six-seater gondola, which has been operating since 1989. The upgrade will significantly improve both transportation capacity and passenger comfort.
The main technical specifications include:
Lift type: 10-seater premium gondola
Manufacturer: LEITNER
Lift length: 3,048.67 metres
Vertical rise: 910.80 metres
Horizontal length: 2,898 metres
Maximum capacity: 3,250 passengers per hour
Operating speed: 6.5 m/s
Number of cabins: 97
Journey time: 7 minutes and 49 seconds
Compared with the previous installation, which transported approximately 1,800 passengers per hour, the new gondola will increase capacity substantially. Its higher operating speed will also reduce the journey to the mountain station from just over 10 minutes to less than eight minutes.
Improved Access to Monte Elmo
The new HELMISSIMO gondola will depart from Versciaco (Vierschach), providing direct access to Monte Elmo, one of the key mountains in the 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski area.
Monte Elmo is an important starting point for exploring the wider ski network, with connections towards Stiergarten and Croda Rossa. The improved lift infrastructure is expected to make access to these slopes more comfortable, particularly during busy periods.
For skiers and snowboarders, the reduced waiting times and shorter uphill journey should make it easier to enjoy more time on the slopes.
Upgraded Ski Slopes and Snowmaking Facilities
HELMISSIMO is more than just a new gondola installation. The project also includes improvements to the valley run leading back towards Versciaco.
Several sections of the piste are being widened to provide additional space, improve skiing comfort and increase safety for visitors with different levels of experience.
The technical snowmaking system is also being upgraded. These improvements will help maintain more reliable snow conditions and support consistent winter operations throughout the season.
Expansion of the Punka Building
Another important part of the development is the expansion of the Punka building at the Versciaco lift station.
The upgraded facilities will provide better connections between the gondola, ski rental services and ski storage areas. Covered access and shorter walking distances will make the start of the skiing day more convenient.
These improvements are particularly valuable for families and visitors carrying ski equipment.
3 Zinnen Dolomites: Investing in the Future of Skiing
The 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski area is one of the most attractive winter sports destinations in South Tyrol. Located close to the Austrian border, it combines spectacular Dolomite mountain scenery with a varied network of ski slopes.
The resort offers approximately 110 kilometres of pistes, ranging from gentle beginner runs to challenging red and black slopes. Its interconnected ski areas include Monte Elmo, Stiergarten, Croda Rossa, Monte Baranci and other mountain sectors.
The new HELMISSIMO gondola is another step in the resort's long-term strategy to modernise its infrastructure, improve visitor comfort and strengthen its position among Italy's leading ski destinations.
Latest Resort News
Helmissimo: A New 10-Seater Gondola Set to Transform the 3 Zinnen Dolomites Ski Area
The 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski area in South Tyrol, Italy, is preparing for a major infrastructure upgrade ahead of the 2026/2027 winter season. The new HELMISSIMO 10-seater premium gondola in Versciaco will bring faster access to Monte Elmo (Helm), increase lift capacity and improve the overall skiing experience.
11/06/2026
La Clusaz Unveils New Six-Seater Balme Chairlift for the 2026–2027 Ski Season
La Clusaz, one of the most popular ski resorts in the French Alps, is preparing a major upgrade to its mountain infrastructure with the installation of a brand-new six-seater detachable chairlift in the iconic Balme sector. The new lift, built by French manufacturer POMA, is set to transform access to one of the resort's most spectacular high-altitude skiing areas for the 2026–2027 winter season.
11/04/2026
L’Alpe du Grand Serre Saved: 30-Year Deal and Investment
L’Alpe du Grand Serre, one of the oldest ski resorts in the French Alps, has been saved from permanent closure after signing a 30-year operating agreement with SATA Group. The deal, signed on 30 September 2026, secures the resort’s long-term future and paves the way for its reopening on 19 December 2026. With investments of up to €17 million planned, the resort near Grenoble is preparing for a new chapter in its history.
11/03/2026