The Lärchkogelbahn is a central intersection in the ski resort of Planai & Hochwurzen in Schladming (AT). After 26 years of operation the existing 4-seater chairlift will be replaced by a modern 8-seater chairlift made by LEITNER ropeways in time for the coming winter season. Enthusiasts can already get a virtual glimpse of the future project on the Planai.
The new Lärchkogelbahn will greatly improve skiing operations on the Planai. The new chairlift at the summit area with 61 Premium Chairs EVO including heated seats and a weather protection bubbles, with a length of c. 1,200 metres, covers a height difference of more than 400 metres in 3 min 43 s. In view of the marked increase in capacity from 2,030 to 3,500 persons per hour, the operators are also investing in the expansion of the “Kraiterabfahrt” piste.
New station buildings designed by Pininfarina will form the future entrances and exits, which will be decorated in the well-known Planai colours. The two stations are not only an architectural enhancement, but also bring practical advantages in daily operation. Thus the clearly broader station roof provides better protection against snow, complete covering of the chairs and thereby greater comfort when entering and leaving. The new ropeways will be equipped with LEITNER DirectDrive.
Virtual ropeway ride creates a longing for winter skiing in 2020/21
An animated video implemented jointly by LEITNER ropeways and Planai-Hochwurzen-Bahnen GmbH allows enthusiasts to get a glimpse of the new generation of ropeways that will be there in only a few months.