Greater comfort, improved connections and a sustainable leap in quality.

With the Helmissimo project, the 3 Zinnen Dolomites ski resort – comprising the municipalities of Sesto, San Candido, Dobbiaco, Villabassa and Braies and recently awarded “Best Ski Resort in Italy” by the World Ski Awards – is taking another significant step in the continuous development of its infrastructure. The construction of the new 10-seater premium gondola in Versciaco, combined with the extension and upgrade of the valley run, marks a new chapter in the long history of the ski area on Monte Elmo and stands for progress, quality and a clear future-oriented vision. The opening of the new installation is planned for the 2026/27 winter season.

The overall project also includes the enhancement of the technical snowmaking system on the recently widened valley run, as well as the expansion of the Punka building. Together, these measures contribute significantly to increased comfort and improved operational efficiency.

At the heart of the project is the replacement of the existing lift with a modern single-rope gondola featuring spacious 10-seater panoramic cabins, one of the flagship products of Leitner AG. The new premium gondola sets new standards in terms of comfort, efficiency and performance. High-quality equipment and functional, generously designed boarding areas ensure smooth, comfortable and state-of-the-art transport to Monte Elmo.

The new installation significantly improves accessibility to Monte Elmo and makes a substantial contribution to reducing waiting times, particularly during peak periods. At the same time, Helmissimo positions itself as a technologically advanced flagship project within the ski area.

Among the most important technical highlights of the new 10-seater premium gondola is the increase in transport capacity to up to 3,250 people per hour (compared to the current capacity of 1,800 people per hour). The operating speed is also increased from 5.0 m/s to 6.5 m/s. With a slope length of 3,047.67 m, a horizontal length of 2,898 m and a vertical rise of 910.80 m, travel time is reduced from just over 10 minutes to 7 minutes and 49 seconds. A total of 97 cabins are in operation.

In parallel with the new gondola installation, the valley run will be widened in several sections and repositioned under the name “Helmissimo.” The increased slope width significantly enhances safety and skiing comfort for guests of all ability levels. Gentle sections and more dynamic passages ensure a varied, engaging and highly attractive skiing experience for skiers and snowboarders alike.

Another central component of the project is the optimization of the technical snowmaking system. Through targeted infrastructure upgrades, a high level of snow reliability is ensured – an increasingly essential prerequisite for stable and high-quality winter operations throughout the entire season.

In addition to the new gondola, the project also includes the expansion of the Punka building, creating added comfort and improved efficiency. The Versciaco access point is one of the main entry points to the ski area and plays a central role in managing guest flows. In the future, guests will benefit from level access between gondola arrival and the entry area, as well as a direct and covered connection from the ski depot and rental area to the lift. These measures allow for shorter walking distances, smoother guest flows and an even more comfortable start to the ski day.