Ballon d’Alsace adapts winter operations and long-term strategy

The Syndicat mixte interdépartemental du Ballon d’Alsace (SMIBA) has announced operational adjustments for the upcoming winter season and long-term strategic shifts in response to climate change.

For the winter season, ski areas are scheduled to open on December 19, subject to snow conditions. While domains will be accessible daily during school holidays, a modified schedule will be implemented from January 5 to February 5, 2027. During this period, the general public will be welcomed on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, while Thursdays and Fridays will be reserved for groups via reservation in the Gentiane space and the Nordic domain. Additionally, the Tourtet ski lift will remain closed this season to concentrate resources on more favorable sectors.

Looking beyond winter, SMIBA is working to transition the region into an “all-season” destination. This strategy aims to maintain attractiveness regardless of the season by developing high-quality activities for diverse audiences, including families, hikers, seniors, and people with disabilities. Since November 2025, approximately sixty local stakeholders have been involved in consultations to address economic and environmental constraints. Detailed future ambitions for the site are expected to be presented in November.