South Tyrol's Belpiano Ski Area Gets Major Upgrade with Barrier-Free 10-Passenger Gondola

South Tyrol's Belpiano ski area is undergoing a major transformation with construction now in full swing on a state-of-the-art 10-passenger gondola lift that promises to set new standards for accessibility and capacity in the Italian Alps. The new Leitner lift set to transform access with 2,800-passenger hourly capacity and year-round operations from winter 2026/27

The new Piz-Schöneben gondola, manufactured by Leitner for operator Schöneben AG, will replace the existing facility of the same name and is scheduled to begin operations for the 2026/2027 winter season.

Accessibility at the Forefront

The lift's headline feature is completely barrier-free access throughout the system, addressing a growing demand for inclusive mountain facilities. Families with young children, guests with limited mobility, and active sports enthusiasts will all benefit from streamlined boarding, with provisions for bringing skis in winter and bicycles in summer directly into the cabins.

With a capacity of 2,800 passengers per hour, the new installation is designed to eliminate bottlenecks during peak periods—a chronic problem at many Alpine resorts during holiday weeks and weekends.

Comprehensive Infrastructure Overhaul

The project extends well beyond the lift itself. At the valley station, Schöneben AG is building an expanded ticket office, a significantly larger ski depot, modern restroom facilities, and redesigned administrative offices.

The mountain station will feature purpose-built infrastructure including a dedicated ski school area with offices and nursery facilities, plus a new first aid station. Direct connections to winter slopes and summer hiking and cycling trails are being designed to provide seamless transitions between transport and activities.

Night Operations Approved

In a notable addition, the new gondola has secured authorization for night service, opening possibilities for evening events, night skiing operations, and what organizers describe as "special, evocative moments in the mountains"—potentially positioning Belpiano to compete with resorts offering extended operating hours.

The multi-season design reflects broader industry trends toward year-round mountain tourism, with infrastructure capable of serving winter sports enthusiasts, summer hikers, and mountain bikers within the same system.

Construction continues on schedule for the 2026/27 winter season opening.