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Mountain Lifts of Gstaad: Behind the ScenesIn winter, around one million guests scale Saanenland’s peaks, comfortably, in one of the 62 lifts of Gstaad Mountain Rides. On the trail or on a sled run, in the snow-park, on the hiking path or in one of the numerous mountain restaurants, what reigns is pleasure, as light as the powder snow. However, behind the scenes people are working around the clock. Behind the seven mountains near Gstaad, neither the seven dwarfs nor the ginger bread man are at work, but the 360 employees as well as the committed personnel of many local businesses. One of these 360 employees is Oswald von Grünigen, Deputy Manager of the Rellerli cable car. He’s not just any man, as you may notice, since, as the oldest employee just before his 35-year anniversary with Gstaad Mountain Rides, he knows, like no other, what is most important to demanding holiday guests: perfect trails, comfortable transport to the top of the mountain, and culinary delights - simply the few extras that Gstaad has to offer. Trails that are perfectly prepared all the time are standard in the region of Gstaad Mountain Rides. Thirty-one grooming machines work around the clock, guaranteeing a smooth and steady run down. Around 80 employees are responsible for the preparation and safety of the trails and if need be, for keeping them well-covered with artificial snow. However, in the evening when the lifts close, the real challenge begins. The 250 kilometers (156 miles) of trails have to be loosened, packed down, and smoothened. With an average trail width of 20 meters (65 feet) the total area to be groomed is the equivalent of 5,000 ice-hockey fields. Despite the availability of the most modern equipment, this work on the steepest of slopes continues right into the morning hours and when there is fresh snow-fall, even longer. The working day of the machinists begins hours before the first ski-guests catch the lift up the white mountains. Step by step, the ski lifts and cable cars are brought back to life. The cable cars that have been parked overnight in the garage-halls are hooked onto the cable, safety checks are carried out and all the important functions are tested. Apart from this morning routine, the machinists also do regular maintenance work. Every screw and every clamp is checked, the door-automatics are tested and worn windows and benches are replaced. The monthly check of all the ropes ensures maximum safety. When required, a magnetic inductive test is carried through – that means, an “x-ray” is taken of the rope piece. Depending on the result, the rope is repaired or replaced, so that the utmost safety of our passengers is guaranteed.
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