What actually happens during the autumn overhaul on the Madrisa?

Take a look behind the scenes of our mountain transport system

When hiking boots gradually make way for ski boots on the Madrisa, things are anything but quiet for us. Before the first guest kicks off the winter season with a ride on the lifts, our technical teams really get going: it's time for the annual overhaul. 

What does that mean? Simply said: we get our facilities ready for winter – ensuring everyone gets up the mountain safely, comfortably and with a smile.

Screwing, checking, and lubricating – we put our heart and soul into it.

Whether it's a gondola lift, chairlift, or magic carpet, every facility is checked in minute detail, serviced, and made ready. Brakes are tested, roller batteries are dismantled and lubricated, electronics are checked, and all safety functions are tested multiple times. We also bring our snow-making equipment and snow groomers from their summer rest and prepare them for their next central mission.

At Madrisa, there are also female workers in this male-dominated field. Our technical team consists not only of men but also of some tough women. This mixed bunch is technically top-notch and works well as a team. There is often laughter—and sometimes even swearing in the Prättigau dialect—but in the end, what counts is that everyone pulls at the same rope.

No winter operation without an overhaul

Many guests are unaware of how much work is required behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly and, above all, safely. This is precisely what overhauls are for. They are required by law—and a matter of course for us. After all, only when everything is perfectly prepared can we kick off the winter season feeling fully relaxed and confident.

A little like Christmas...

To be honest: when the gondolas start running again on the first day of winter, the first skis click into the bindings and the snow crunches under our boots – it feels a little like Christmas to us. Because we know: Everything is ready. Everything is safe. Let's get started.

Curious? Suppose you happen to be hiking on our mountain in autumn. In that case, you might see someone hanging upside down from the ropeway cable, one foot on the mast and a roller in their hand – then you'll know: that's us, in the middle of our annual overhaul, in the middle of preparing for your winter.

See you soon on the Madrisa!
Your Madrisa crew