Winter sports season approaches in Germany and Switzerland

Ski resorts across Germany and Switzerland are preparing for the upcoming winter sports season, with varying start dates depending on weather conditions and snow levels.

In Germany, the Zugspitze is expected to be among the first to open on November 27, followed by Garmisch-Classic in December. Other regions, including Oberstdorf, Kleinwalsertal, and the Sauerland area, are targeting early December starts. However, winter sports enthusiasts will face higher costs, as the Association of German Cable Cars (VDS) reports that average daily lift pass prices have increased by 4.2 percent compared to last year.

In Switzerland, recent snowfall in higher elevations has boosted seasonal outlooks. Glacier slopes in Saas-Fee and Zermatt are already open, while the Diavolezza region in Graubünden is scheduled to begin operations on October 24. While some areas anticipate more snow, forecasts indicate a rising snow line in certain western and northern Alpine regions, which may result in rain at lower altitudes.