In an inspiring move that prioritises both community and the environment, the Austrian town of Villach has transformed the Dobratsch mountain into a thriving nature park, eschewing artificial snow for a more sustainable future. This decision comes in response to the climate crisis and its impact on natural snowfall, marking a pivotal shift in how alpine resorts approach winter recreation.
A Local Treasure Reimagined
As I stroll along a winding path in the Dobratsch nature park, enveloped by serene snow-laden pines, laughter and excited shrieks fill the air. Park ranger Birgit Pichorner gestures for me to step aside as a cheerful couple glides past on a wooden toboggan, embodying the joy that this mountain brings to its visitors. For the residents of Villach, Dobratsch is not just a mountain; it’s a cherished “Hausberg” or local mountain, deeply integrated into their lives.
Once a bustling ski resort until its closure in 2002, Dobratsch faced a dilemma familiar to many in the Alpine region: to invest in snow cannons for artificial snow or to forge a new path. With the climate crisis causing unpredictable snowfall, Villach made a bold choice. They opted to protect their natural landscape and community health, leading to the creation of a protected nature park instead of resorting to artificial alternatives.
The Environmental Cost of “Maschinenschnee”
The repercussions of relying on snow machines, or “Maschinenschnee” as the Austrians refer to it, can be severe. The process is not only resource-heavy, consuming vast amounts of water and energy but also endangers delicate ecosystems. Professor Carmen de Jong, a hydrologist, has noted that the introduction of artificial snow can introduce harmful bacteria into the snow and surrounding soils, jeopardising local water sources.
In Villach, concerns about the purity of drinking water sourced from the mountain’s karst limestone system prompted residents to reject the idea of artificial snow. Instead, they focused on creating a sustainable environment where locals and visitors alike can engage with nature year-round.
Embracing Nature’s Bounty
The Dobratsch nature park, now a beacon of sustainable tourism, offers a plethora of outdoor activities for all ages. Accessible via an affordable €5 bus from Villach, visitors can explore three winter hiking routes, multiple ski touring paths, and a dedicated toboggan slope. The park not only provides a recreational haven but also serves as an educational platform, where local schoolchildren participate in nature classes that deepen their understanding of the alpine ecosystem.
Hiking through this pristine landscape, my journey takes me to the summit at 2,166 metres, where I am greeted by breathtaking views—despite a veil of fog obscuring Slovenia and Italy. The crunch of real snow underfoot evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of winter holidays gone by.
A Different Kind of Adventure
In contrast to the artificial snow experience I encountered in St Anton, where the sound of snow cannons permeated the air, my time at Dobratsch felt distinctly authentic. The joy of navigating through untouched snow, where each turn creates a flurry of white powder, is something that no machine could replicate.
Further afield, in the picturesque village of Mallnitz, mountain guide Klaus Alber introduced me to the beauty of snow touring. Despite the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, Klaus encourages guests to appreciate the natural landscape, providing alternative activities that highlight the area’s stunning beauty. As we traversed the Hohe Tauern National Park, every sweeping view and untouched snowfield reaffirmed the richness of a winter experience grounded in nature.
Why it Matters
Villach’s innovative approach to winter tourism is a powerful reminder of the importance of embracing sustainable practices in the face of climate change. By prioritising natural beauty over artificial solutions, Villach not only preserves its local environment but also fosters a deeper connection between residents, tourists, and the breathtaking landscape of the Austrian Alps. This shift sets a precedent for other ski resorts grappling with similar challenges, proving that it is possible to thrive while honouring the integrity of nature.
