Construction is underway in almost all regions that have won the fame of "ski" fans. The authors of the Ural and Sochi projects compete in scale ... However, investors still have a lot of questions. For example, when they return from three to seven million dollars, which (and this is the minimum!) You need to bury in the ground to create your own mining ski resort?
At the same time, there is an audience. Those who wet their skis in April "at Tyagachev's" in Shukolov and stood in the queues of "Stepanov" for a short but unforgettable descent (after all, the longest slope in the Moscow region) knows. The thirst to ride is ineradicable. From the hills, hills, even if just one minute, but so that they were real pokatushki, secretly dreaming about the alpine expanses and remembering the Dombai "powder".
City dwellers, locked in offices, summer cottages, apartments and cars, want to move. After all, movement is not even life, but survival. Therefore, owners of suburban slopes will always have a clientele. Unless, of course, global warming intervenes and puts everyone on the rollers.
Rollercoaster
There are two main formats: a full-fledged resort in a tourist area with an area of 100 hectares and a ski complex near big city... Construction of complexes in tourist areas requires significant investments (for example, you need to build a hotel), as well as more active marketing. On the contrary, the risks of resorts near megacities are minimal, because the city is able to provide a stable flow of customers. And the investments are different at times.
If a descent near the Siberian or Volga "millionaire" can be built for three to seven million dollars (the Samara project of the SOK group - eight, Novososedovo near Novosibirsk - seven million), and a resort in the Moscow region and Leningrad region - for 40-50 million, then in the mountains we are talking about amounts of more than 100 million.
These formats are also different in content. In fact, these are two different principles of work. What is relevant in the city may not be needed in the mountains. Shops selling inventory will obviously be successful only in megalopolises, and suburban highways that satisfy the momentary impulses to "ride" do not have to work and be illuminated until late at night.
The prices of weekend passes in ski resorts in the Moscow Region and Leningrad Region have long been equal to the Swiss ones ($ 30–40). It is generally accepted that on alpine skiing ah, it is not ordinary people who ride, but the wealthy. These clients are claimed not only by winter entertainment centers, but also indoor go-karts, cinemas, water parks, climbing walls and fitness clubs. However, Sergey Filchenkov, an analyst with the FINAM investment company, is confident that “competition here is close to a minimum: ski resorts are successfully playing the extreme fashion in combination with the growing popularity healthy way life ".
The maintenance of a resort near Moscow of such a level as "Volen", "Sorochany" or "Leonid Tyagachev's Club", in the high season, costs the owner an average of 250 to 300 thousand dollars a month. Weekend traffic reaches 6,000 people a day, while the average visitor's check is $ 50-100. The conclusion suggests itself: such resorts are profitable! And there is still enough space in the country. And Sergei Filchenkov stirs up investment ardor: not only the million-plus cities have prospects, but also cities with a population of more than 500 thousand people.
From three million
The success of a resort is determined by three groups of factors and characteristics: physical, market and financial. First, you need to conduct a reconnaissance on the ground, building a master plan, which will summarize the conclusions of ecologists and other specialists using aerial photography, topographic maps, 3D analytical models and analytical planning technologies. And it's expensive.
Key market factors are transport infrastructure, size and location of primary and secondary markets, demographics (population, age, income, education). Expected attendance is measured in person-days. The higher the indicator, the, naturally, the higher the payback.
And finally, finance. The main thing in the formation of a business plan is the potential capacity of the resort, the length of the season, the cost and availability of infrastructure, facilities, as well as operational efficiency, the main sources of income and pricing policy. All this must be considered, and considered qualitatively. A few gross mistakes or just a bet on "maybe" - and millions will really be "buried".
The land for the ski resort can be purchased or leased for an unlimited period. But this is theory. And the practice is as follows: the question of land is as acute here as in pre-revolutionary Russia. Even in Moscow (not to mention other cities) there are impromptu slopes created on a voluntary basis, which are on the balance sheet of the district council or an enterprise and are equipped with archaic drag lifts. It would seem, buy out these assets, equip them on the sly. But it was not there.
A land plot can be purchased at an auction, and renting 200 hectares of land will cost an average of 7-10 million rubles a year, depending on the region. So, the ski slope Likhaya Gorka in Zmeinogorsk was sold for 158 thousand rubles - the site was bought by local entrepreneur Alexander Sozinov, the owner of a network of gas stations and household appliances stores. Additionally, he plans to invest about a million rubles in the development of the slope. But more often than not, just buying out an empty land or an abandoned slope is not enough. It is necessary to supply communications, electricity. And even a strong medium-sized business cannot cope with this alone.
The implementation of most projects in this "administratively sensitive" area directly depends on the relationship between local authorities and entrepreneurs. Experts usually define the minimum "entry threshold" as follows: the price of a lift - from 300 thousand dollars, a snowcat - from half a million. Creation of infrastructure - a house for changing clothes, cafes, shops, a rental point - the same amount. That is, without three million in this business there is simply nothing to do. “However, the purchase of equipment is nothing compared to the overall scale of costs,” says Vladimir Gordeychik, development manager of the Blagodat ski complex (Belokurikha, Altai region). - First you need to find a mountain, get permits for it, install electricity, all communications, a road. The resort should have convenient access roads for cars and public transport... This position is especially critical for the city park ”.
There is, of course, no formula for an ideal spa. But all specialists unanimously insist that business indicators must be balanced, otherwise failure is guaranteed. The balance in the description of Nikolai Spassky, manager of the resort "Tuutari-Park", is a well-developed infrastructure, well-prepared slopes, an abundance of additional services and high capacity of the resort.
We'll have to spend money on a system of artificial snowmaking. It would seem that there is still enough snow in the country. But in fact, the thickness of the snow cover should be from one and a half to two meters, and not all regions can boast of such indicators. Artificial snow provides another significant advantage. “Now we can only talk about tracks with artificial snow, so we can more or less extend the season,” admits Vladimir Gordeychik. And this is a costly business - taking into account the installation work, it will cost 15 million rubles.
The scale of work and investment directly depends on the condition of the slope. Usually in the first year all trees are cut down, the slope is leveled. Then hotels and technical facilities are built. The minimum set of infrastructure: snow-covered slopes, a hotel, rental, a certified and instructed school, a children's ski school, meals, the availability of additional services at the hotel.
The tandem "hotel and track" costs 60-100 million rubles (15-20 thousand rubles per square meter). 10 million will be spent on the improvement of the territory, from 3 to 10 (depending on the amount of work) - for the improvement of the mountain, plus communications - 1.5-2 million. The lift costs from 15 million, plus additional costs for safety and improvement of the mountain. And finally, snow groomers - a million per unit.
Technically, the track can be built no faster than in two seasons, since many works simply cannot be carried out in winter. Hotel - the same two years, provided that you have everything in your hands Required documents... And that can also take several ... no, not months - years. Again, because we live in Russia.
“We can talk about payback only when the season lasts six to seven months a year,” warns Vladimir Gordeychik. - Alpine skiing pays off where there are mountains over two thousand meters high and glaciers that allow you to work eight to nine months a year. At the same time, if someone claims that the term of "return" of such a case is less than seven years, do not believe it. These people are lying and probably do not wish you well. Investors in complexes under construction today are already setting a ten-year payback period. And to wait for the fruits for so long, you need to have very long money. Or develop step by step, investing gradually. "
You can increase your income with the help of additional infrastructure. For example, to lay a trail for snowmobiles and "quads", to shelter a hang-glider base or a helicopter club, to have dog or reindeer teams for the entertainment of the public. The creation of additional infrastructure increases the cash flow, but at the same time investments also grow - by 30-50%. As a result, the payback periods remain the same, even if individual objects can be classified as fast payback (for example, a restaurant easily returns investments in two to three years).
Finally, not all "fashion" trends are profitable within this business model. So, last year, several ski centers announced the construction of snow parks (an area for snowboarders with special snow figures). The number of snowboarders is growing rapidly, and they need conditions to practice their favorite sport. The cost of even decent equipment is low - about 500 thousand rubles. But maintaining a snow park is an expensive pleasure. In addition, in the process of snow compaction, it is necessary to build figures, and this is manual work. As a result, only 20-30 people skate - nothing compared to a thousand skiers on an ordinary slope near Moscow.
Dangerous track
So, the specifics of this market segment are emerging - the need for significant investments, a long period payback, as well as difficulties with land acquisition and obtaining building permits. But there are other risks that entrepreneurs do not like to talk about, although each of them faces them in practice.
First of all, today the possibility of aggressive actions (including those provoked and paid for by competitors) on the part of environmental and other authorities cannot be ruled out, because ski resort must obtain permission from the State Sanitary and Epidemiological Supervision, Gosarkhnadzor, Gosgortechnadzor and other departments. This means that during a routine inspection, you may well "find" several illegal structures, write out a huge fine, or even bring to court.
In addition, there is no qualified management in the country capable of managing such projects. There is also no well-formed flow of tourists from other countries and regions.
Another negative factor that managers are complaining about: in recent years, there has simply been no snow! In Sheregesh, where there were never any problems with snow, and skiers skated up to May holidays, this year they could not open the season even on November 7. In summer, the slopes are closed, the resort is frozen. And these are losses. As a result, the operators of winter resorts are intensely looking for the keys to all-season life - they build sanatoriums, golf courses, swimming pools, and create summer infrastructure. “Corporate parties and events partly solve the problem, but there should be cottages or hotels on the territory of the complex,” says Nikolai Spassky (Tuutari Park).
In some resorts in France and Austria, the profit in the summer is about 30% of the winter. Just enough to pay the staff. Nevertheless, the year-round mode is the most effective strategy of work, which leads to an increase in income. In this case, the initial investment can grow by 50%, but the payback period will be reduced by one and a half to two years.
One way or another, investors are showing increasing interest in this business. However, can one investor “pull” such a project without the support of the authorities (administrative resource), “oligarchic” injections, large-scale investments and “long” money, the return of which is not critical? Well, if you have several tens of millions of unaddressed dollars in stock and you are ready to invest them for a long time, the project can work out. But we need to prepare for the fact that the volume of supporting investments will be quite impressive: the costs of depreciation and maintenance of slopes are high. You will have to spend at least 100 thousand rubles just for the maintenance of the tracks in the summer.
Without exception, all experts interviewed by Business Journal agreed that the specifics of the management of ski resorts is such that one cannot do without state participation. Investors cannot do it alone. However, so far, the outlined revival around the tourist special zones does not impress investors. They are ready to cooperate with the authorities and turn the country into a large ski resort. But with clear and transparent rules of the game.
On the rise
Before diving headlong into the ski business, Dmitry Svishchev, vice president of the Russian Federation of Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding and President of the New League sports club, successfully earned money in the metal trade (his company Metalpromkomplekt supplied metal products to Norilsk Nickel, the Ural mining company , "Russian Aluminum") and for several years headed the famous modeling agency Modus Vivendis. But the meeting with the patriarch of the Russian "alpine skiing" Leonid Tyagachev turned his favorite hobby into a new direction of Svishchev's activity.
First, the idea was born to create a professional ski club. The initiative was supported, they recruited coaches, purchased inventory, came up with the sonorous name "New League", began to work with national teams. The next logical step was the design of "friendly" ski resorts- a small "Novososedov", 130 km from Novosibirsk, and a large-scale "Sheregesh" in the Kemerovo region on Mount Zelenaya. It will take at least seven to ten years to return the investment, but Dmitry Svishchev and the shareholders (Coal Mining and Metallurgical Company and KuzbassRazrezUgol) are ready to wait. They believe: they will go to them. The main thing is to create conditions.
- Dmitry, where is the confidence that the Russians will not exchange Green for the Alps?
Russia - unique country who should be proud of her capabilities. Even in spite of global warming, we have a very long snow period on average throughout the country. In terms of landscape, we lag behind the Alpine countries, but in terms of the variety of mountains we can easily give them a head start. Snow in Sheregesh lies for more than six months, the season lasts from November 7 to May 9. What other mountains can boast of this? In general, the market is huge, just imagine: out of 150 million Russians, 50 million go downhill skiing. Another indicator of the industry's prospects is the results of the competition for special economic zones. 80% of the applications were in one way or another related to the construction of ski resorts. The poorest regions such as Altai and Altai Krai are interested in the inflow of investments. But they are far from the center; despite the presence of minerals, the population is poor. Build science cities? This is hardly real. But to attract tourists with its virgin beauty is quite. I am building a resort myself and I perfectly understand what it is.
- There is an opinion that ski resorts are not a business, but a favorite toy of metallurgical plants.
There is logic in this. The money is really big and long. It is impossible to build without ties with the leadership of the region, territory, city. "Mountain ski", in my opinion, is a symbiosis of commerce, sports and the social sphere, which should attract both state bodies (mayor's office, administration), and businessmen and athletes. A team of these basic players can make a high-quality and successful product. If we didn’t have the support of Governor Tuleyev, we would still be filling out the paperwork now.
- What is the payback of ski projects outside Moscow and St. Petersburg today?
On average, ten to eleven years. But, of course, a lot depends on the format. I am building two resorts at the same time. One with a height difference of 200 meters, and the other - 800. In the first case, the minimum investment is seven million dollars. Ski center in Sheregesh - from 150 million.
- "Sheregesh" is a multimillion-dollar investment that will not be known when it will return ...
Yes, I am often asked: when investing money, are investors sure that there will be a return? Of course it will be. Who will go? Muscovites. But in order for them to come to us, they must first create conditions, build a resort of the European level. Because the flight to Novokuznetsk is the same four hours as to Munich. But there, after a couple of hours, they find themselves in a ski paradise: they receive a sea of service, pleasure and buzz. Prices, if you compare the current Russian resorts with alpine ones, they are very similar, but our quality does not correspond to the European standard. Snow groomers do not work, not everywhere there is a system of artificial snowmaking, lifts - "second-hand" 60s. If conditions are created that are no worse than those in the West (and today it is possible), then tourists will stay in Russia. Today, in order to be competitive, you cannot buy scrap metal.
- What is the structure of these costs?
We paid 300 thousand dollars to the Canadians for the “master plan” of Sheregesh, 25 thousand dollars - to the company from St. Petersburg for Novososedovo. A snow machine (snowcat) costs from 300 thousand dollars, a lift - from half a million, a restaurant complex - another half a million. In general, the entry threshold is at least three million.
- How are they distributed?
First of all, these are communications: roads (ordinary, highways, cable cars), electricity, water supply. Once you have established the basic structure, it makes sense to attract outside investors - build hotels and so on. It is impossible to simply call: “Come to our taiga”, even using connections. What do you guys have? Taiga, but in 10 years there will be a ski complex. The principle is the same here: the infrastructure attracts people. It is known that cottage settlements are more expensive when there are golf courses nearby.
- What is the income structure of a winter resort?
There are not so many income items. Lifts bring 20-30%, about 25 - catering and hotels, the same amount - rental and shop, another 20 - school and attractions.
- "Novosedovo" - a resort in the metropolis. How promising is this format?
From a commercial point of view, it is very profitable to build around megalopolises. Resorts in Moscow and St. Petersburg earn no less than their Alpine counterparts. Wealthy people live here. Prospects for the development of resorts around megacities are colossal. But if such a resort (drop of 100 meters) is built somewhere in Altai, then “three cripples” will come there. If the complex does not have pronounced advantages - it cannot take the height of the drop, the length of the slope, good lifts, the range of services provided to clients - its "death" is inevitable. Because next to it a high-quality resort will be built, where people will go.
You are planning to turn Sheregesh into the main training base of the national teams in alpine skiing. Does this make economic sense?
We will regularly hold competitions of the highest level here. In general, sports facilities are not profitable. However, for the popularization of the resort, the sports complex is an indispensable component of the image.
Hills and mansions of Yakhroma
The Volen Sports Park started in 1997 with one slide, one lift and three cottages as a “corporate” rest house for employees of the Volen company, which was then engaged in a business very far from sports and entertainment, namely, the export of leather and the production of footwear. However, soon the circle of skiers expanded so much that it became clear: one ski lift, a restaurant and three houses are not enough, infrastructure is needed.
So the idea was born to build winter park in outskirts of Moscow. In the winter of 1998-1999, Volen was able to offer seven slopes, five lifts, 25 cabins for those wishing to stay in the park overnight, a restaurant and cafe, a parking lot, equipment rental, a small sports shop and instructor services. Throughout the summer of 1999, the company was engaged in construction.
By the winter of 2000, a 59-room hotel and a new cafe with a terrace were built in the park. Gradually the project evolved from ski park into sports: spectrum sports entertainment went beyond just alpine skiing and related services. Volen is a successful example of a step-by-step development of a commercial project in the ski industry, without large-scale investments from metallurgical companies and natural monopolies. On the specifics and advantages sports complex Elena Skopinova, deputy general director on commercial issues and a shareholder of the Volen Sports Park.
- Is it possible to make money in the ski business today?
If we consider it only as a ski resort, then it is extremely difficult to make money on this. Today it is necessary to create an environment for active rest, entertainment and accommodation: houses, hotels. We must not forget about the corporate clientele - it is necessary to include conference halls, equipped halls for celebrations and holidays in the park project. Only with an integrated approach and attention to detail can you expect your business to be profitable.
- Plus 4 in the yard. How is the park coping with global warming?
This is an anomaly that has affected everyone. As far as I know, European resorts are also suffering losses. We recruited staff, sold tickets for December.
- Is this the first unexpected "failure" of the weather in your practice?
The weather in the Moscow region is never stable. Sudden cold snaps, warming - all this is happening. The artificial snowmaking system is designed to reduce the risks, but in order for the guns to start working, we need a “minus”. At least minus two. The weather has never "hit" so much. We all sincerely hope that it will snow soon or at least the temperature will drop below zero.
- There is an opinion that resorts near Moscow earn like their Alpine counterparts ...
I can’t compare, because I don’t know the exact numbers. Slides on European resorts higher, and it is interesting to ride there. In terms of the height of the mountains, we cannot compare with either Krasnaya Polyana or the Alps. We are not building resorts in order to interrupt the flow of those who go to ski in " big mountains", We just give the opportunity to ride those who, for some reason, cannot travel abroad often. To attract residents of a metropolis, it is necessary to focus not only and not so much on skiing, but on entertainment and infrastructure. Quite a specific "niche" - parents with small children. I put all my children on skis in Volen, and when we go to St. Maurice or Courchevel, there are no problems: my children already know how to ski.
When the park was planned, was the infrastructure that exists today, or did you develop spontaneously?
Historically, the park emerged as a corporate recreation center and gradually turned into a massive ski resort, so we developed step by step. As soon as there is a financial opportunity for expansion, we use it. For example, a conference hall is being built this year. A new chairlift and new lifts have been built in Stepanov, which will increase the resort's traffic. We opened two restaurants: fast food (lunch costs about 200–250 rubles) and next door a gourmet restaurant for those who like to eat exquisitely (there is also a veranda there).
You have been in this market for almost 10 years. What has changed during this time in the industry in terms of interaction with the authorities? Is the permitting process still the most difficult stage in the construction of ski resorts?
There was certainly some paperwork, but, fortunately, everything is behind us. All documents have now been completed. So there is no problem. As for the laws, I would like to benefit from tax legislation. So far we are organizing health days for pensioners, but we would like to attract more young people.
When you started, land was orders of magnitude cheaper. How do you assess the current entry threshold? Has it gotten higher and how does it affect the business?
It is very difficult for me to estimate the entry threshold. The land was really worth less. But as pioneers, we made a bunch of mistakes that had to be corrected in the process. Investors entering the market now spend much more money on land registration or land lease rights. But, taking into account our experience and mistakes, they can save money. And the money saved is the money earned. They can get it right. And get a quick return. From the point of view of construction and business organization, it is now much easier to build ski resorts. We had no experience, and there was no one to learn from. Now, I believe, people have the opportunity to learn from the mistakes of others.
- For instance?
Build a year-round resort that will be equally profitable in winter and summer. We had to do this already during the functioning of the park. Despite the reconstruction of the cottages, we did not consider summer rest as a separate project. Having seen the balance between operating costs and profitability, since 2000 we have focused on creating conditions for outdoor activities without snow. Transferring to a year-round mode is a laborious task. Together, we have coped. In many ways, this "pillow" helps to survive the vagaries of the weather.
- Do you envision Volen in another city in the future?
In Samara. There are snowy winters. In Novosibirsk. But in principle, the format of an all-season sports park can take root near any major city. Another thing is that if you build large parks, then you need to understand that the influx of people is a prerequisite. If you stick to a sensible business plan, you can count on nearby cities. There is no point in hoping for a long distance and international tourism: it takes years of advancement to create a stream. If the city is developing well, the residents have adequate salaries - why not? But if this is a small village, the inhabitants of which cannot buy such services ...
In one of your interviews, you said that this year "Volen" will pay off. But there is a feeling that the business is constantly in need of reinvestment. Is this so and what is the reason?
Absolutely right. As soon as you reach zero, you pay off your debts, breathe in with relief ... and you realize that there is still a lot to do. And again - infusions, infusions, infusions. One snow compacting machine costs about a million.
,The popularity of alpine skiing in Russia provides a constant interest on the part of entrepreneurs and investors in the implementation of projects related to with the construction of ski resorts... In our country, which has unique climatic conditions and provided with a variety of landscapes, you can implement the most daring projects in the ski business. More than 300 ski resorts and equipped ski resorts Moreover, quite a lot of objects were designed and built with the support of Ski Build Expo and partners.
Despite a very significant number of ski resorts in Russia, not all of them meet the requirements of even a not very demanding ski lover. As a rule, complaints are caused by the lack of proper infrastructure and the inconsistency of the level of service with the offered tariffs. In many ways, serious problems and shortcomings are the result of mistakes in the design and construction of ski resorts.
It is at the design stage of a ski complex, at the stages of preparing a master plan, drawing up a feasibility study of the project and developing a business plan, that problems arising after the construction of a ski complex associated with the wrong choice of a place to build a ski resort, ill-conceived development of the territory can be avoided, poor-quality design of ski slopes and the rest of the resort infrastructure.
The successful development of a feasibility study of the project determines how much later the ski complex will be provided with equipment, special equipment, personnel, whether the equipment used at the ski resort will correspond not only to the initial needs, but also to the prospects for expanding activities, the seasonality of the business. A well-chosen cable car, snow-compacting equipment, artificial snowmaking system, safety and trail lighting system, KPS * greatly facilitate the operation and management of the ski resort.
To make an informed decision about starting a project for the construction of a ski complex, investors need plans for the development of a ski resort, for expected costs and unforeseen costs, as well as information on income and financial flows - this is also one of the stages of designing a mountain resort.
The support of Ski Build Expo and partners will help entrepreneurs to reduce costs and increase efficiency of the ski business. We recommend everyone interested in the design and construction of ski resorts to study the following offers and information:
Such a wide variety of landscapes, as in Russia, is rare in the world, and this feature is an excellent opportunity for the development of ski tourism, for the creation of trails of all kinds within one country. This is not to say that this opportunity is not being used. In Russia now you can count more than 300 equipped ski resorts and centers.
But the bases at the disposal of Russian alpine skiing fans are quite different from each other. The variety depends on the number and length of tracks, their steepness and surface condition, the number and type of lifts, technical equipment and service infrastructure, on which the quality of the tracks themselves directly depends. The infrastructure includes evening lighting, systems of artificial snowmaking, leveling and compaction of snow. The availability of points for equipment repair, medical assistance, food, entertainment increases the overall quality level of the ski center.
But a large number of trails are not always a sign of high class. Sometimes a couple of natural, well-snow-covered slopes, not equipped with any lifting mechanisms, cause more positive emotions for the skiers than the hills, indented by many "bald", hummocky or icy slopes. That is why a fairly large number of "semi-wild" slopes are still functioning in Russia, which have a single snowcat as a technique or are not equipped at all. These can be bases of an almost flat nature, which are popular. local residents(in the European part of the country) or located in the steep mountains of the Urals or Altai, for experienced extreme skiers, lovers of long journeys for the thrill. general description ski resorts of various quality levels are given in table 1.
Table 1
Classification of Russian ski resorts by quality and price criteria
Evaluation of the price category of a particular base depends on the completeness of the base with equipment and personnel, which is reflected in the final prices for the use of lifts. Prices, in turn, depend on the type of lift (chairlifts, drag lifts, etc.), as well as the steepness and length of the descent. But often prices are simply set at the level of local market averages, regardless of whether the base corresponds to the chosen price level. The organizers are guided by the occupancy rate of the slopes, and therefore skiing on weekdays is usually cheaper than on weekends and holidays. More "advanced" bases offer various options for combining payment, depending on the family composition and the duration of the ride.
As for service options, mid-level ski resorts always offer basic equipment rental, instructor services, a first-aid post, an insulated locker room, parking, and food outlets. Bases of a higher class offer almost exactly the same range of services, only the main thing is added to their declaration - responsibility: that is, the guards really guard the cars in the parking lot, the staff on the track advises the skiers and helps in using the lifts, and also controls their uninterrupted operation. If the base is far from settlements, offers options for direct accommodation on its territory in small hotels or chalets.
The most frequent negative reviews about the work of Russian ski resorts is the discrepancy between the prices of the service provided. Almost all economy-class ski resorts, as well as many mid-level centers, are often characterized by an overestimation of their real capabilities - the quality of infrastructure, the number of existing slopes and lifts do not correspond to the declared ones, the ski track may be shorter and worse in quality, equipment breaks down, interruptions may occur. electricity, which makes it difficult to read trips on ski pass cards and much more. At the same time, the staff is most often not prepared to solve the problems that have arisen.
But it seems that the patience of Russian vacationers is limitless. Despite the unsatisfactory conditions, most ski resorts (especially on weekends) are packed to overflowing with skiers, which creates meter-long queues for the lifts and contributes to the replenishment of the number of disgruntled visitors. Not everyone, having confidently mastered skiing or snowboarding, can go to "freeride" open spaces Altai mountains or go for a drive abroad, to French and Swiss resorts. However, the number of ski centers is gradually continuing to grow, and those slopes, the potential of which is underutilized, will be expanded or they are planned to be reconstructed.
So, by the 2012 season, the first stage of reconstruction of the Orekhov Kamen base, which is located near the city of Bratsk, in the Irkutsk region, should be completed: it is planned to put into operation a cable car there. The second stage of the reconstruction involves the construction of three ski slopes, a biathlon track, an ice rink, starting houses and an overpass.
Also the famous ski center "Sobolinaya Mountain" near Baikalsk (Irkutsk region) is undergoing reconstruction. Now the maximum attendance of the center is 3 thousand people a day, but it is reached only on some weekends of the winter season. The organizers see the reason for the weak filling in the lack of infrastructure. Therefore, it is planned to build new extended ski slopes, an observation deck, picnic areas, children's center, cottage village, a hotel complex (in total, for 160 places). In 2012, it is planned to create the third stage of the artificial snowmaking system, for which from 3 to 6 snow cannons will be purchased, as well as construction will begin entertainment center... It is assumed that from 2017, during the winter seasons, more than 1.3 billion rubles will be invested in the renovated resort, in the construction of which. in two stages, 5 thousand tourists will come daily.
The Olympic Park base in Ufa is also being set up. In 2013 Ufa will host the International Winter Games. In particular, the Olympic Park will host alpine skiing competitions, in particular, alpine slalom and cross-country skiing on a special track. The construction of a new building for a children's and youth sports school for alpine skiing with an area of about 3 thousand square meters has already begun. One of the main goals of the reconstruction is to equip new ski slopes and expand the existing ones. In addition, a new ski slope will appear in the area of an unfinished 120-meter springboard.
Until 2016, a program for the development of the Sheregesh complex (Kemerovo region) has been developed. As part of this program, new lifts will be built, hotels and catering points will be opened. In addition, the construction of new entertainment facilities is planned on the territory of the ski resort.
The tourist zone "Turquoise Katun", located in Altai, is being improved. The project provides for the construction of a wide-range entertainment complex, which includes the construction of a ski complex with lifts, ski and toboggan runs, viewing platforms and a cafe, as well as a ski school. The total cost of the Turquoise Katun project is over 15 billion rubles. It was planned that the center will receive the first tourists by 2012, and in the future, the tourist complex will be able to visit up to 95 thousand people.
As for new construction, the most ambitious projects are planned in the regions of the Caucasus. The press widely discusses grandiose plans for the construction of a number of international-class ski resorts in the southern republics of Kabardino-Balkaria, Adygea, Dagestan, Karachay-Cherkessia, North Ossetia, Ingushetia and Chechnya. All these new centers will be included in the tourism cluster, the development of which is managed by a specially created company OJSC "Resorts of the North Caucasus" (KSK). The cost of creating the first five resorts is estimated at 451.44 billion rubles. (about 15 billion dollars), of which 60 billion rubles. allocates the budget of the Russian Federation for the creation of infrastructure and engineering networks. The construction will be carried out by the Rizzani de Eccher holding from Italy.
True, the initiators of the construction faced opposition from Russian ecologists, who call on the UNESCO World Heritage Committee to remind the Russian authorities that the territories selected for the construction of ski resorts are classified as specially protected natural areas... In particular, activists argue that if Russia does not abandon plans to build a ski resort on the Lagonaki plateau, then in 2013 the World Heritage Committee will send a special commission to Russia for verification. In turn, representatives of the "Resorts of the North Caucasus" declare that construction is proceeding with the approval of all authorized organizations.
table 2
List of under construction and projected ski complexes and resorts in Russia, by region
A source. Monitoring by ABARUS Market Research.
To date, KSK has signed agreements with investors totaling more than $ 18 billion: among major investors, in particular, the French bank Caisse des Depots et Consignations and Nafta Moskva, but there is a queue of investors wishing to participate in this large-scale project continues to grow. Thus, in June 2012, the Chinese conglomerates China Oceanwide Holdings Group and Dalian Wanda Group confirmed their plans to invest about $ 3 billion in the development of North Caucasian resorts.
There are also less pompous projects in Russia. The construction of new ski resorts is planned in the most different parts country. Information about the most famous projects is given in table 2.
- The first CD in the Elbrus region was built in 1963 (on Cheget)
- The first tourist centers of the Elbrus region "Elbrus" and "Terskol" were opened in the 1930s
- "LeapRus" on Elbrus - the highest hotel in the world (3912 m)
The origin of the Elbrus ski resort
The construction and improvement of the resort began in the 60s, this push was preceded by many factors, including a massive love for sports, the development of alpine skiing in the USSR, Natural resources Elbrus.
It was here, on the slopes of the Caucasus Mountains, in the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, that it was decided to build the first cable car in the USSR.
Construction of CD "" Cheget "
The best Soviet design and construction engineers were involved in the construction of the Cheget cable car.
The length of the first cable car is 1600 meters. Construction of the first stage of the cable car included several stages. Initially, 18 masts were installed, which are located at a certain distance relative to each other, taking into account the specifics of the mountainous terrain and weather conditions... A cable is stretched between the supports on which the seats are fixed.
The lower station of the Cheget cable car is located at an elevation of 2,100 meters above sea level, the upper one - 2,750 meters.
In 1963, on February 19, in the Cheget glade, the opening of the 1st rope complex "Cheget" took place, which served as the start of the development of the Elbrus region as a ski resort.
Construction of the second stage of the cable car began on Cheget, since 1966 both stages of the cable car have already functioned. Now it was possible to climb to a height of 3,000 meters above sea level. Both lines of the cable car are single-chaired.
The double-chairlift "Cheget 1" (level 2100-2750m) began operating in 1969.
Construction of CD "Elbrus"
In parallel with the construction and installation of a pair chairlift on Mount Cheget, the construction of a CD in the Azau glade (Elbrus) is underway. The Pendulum cable car was built here, i.e. instead of open seats on stretched ropes, a funicular was fixed, with a capacity of up to 20 people at a time.
In 1969 the 1st pendulum CD "Elbrus1" was launched: Azau station - Krugozor station (level 2350-3000m).
In 1976, the second stage of the Elbrus 2 pendulum cable car was put into operation: Krugozor station - Mir station (level 3000-3500m).
Construction of GD "Poma" (Elbrus)
The industry in the field of equipment for ski resorts does not stand still, it also develops on a par with other areas. From new technologies, gondola lifts have already begun to appear, which have a modern look and functionality that provide a large capacity. Gondolas are very convenient for tourists with equipment, because it is attached outside the cabin and it is not necessary to bring boards and skis inside.
In 2006, on December 17, in the Azau glade, the long-awaited opening of the first stage of the Gondola Ropeway (GKD) took place - from Azau to Krugozor.
The manufacturers of gondolas are the French company "ROMA", which provide high-quality equipment to many ski resorts.
In 2009, the second stage - "Krugozor" - "Mir" began to operate.
On the this moment in the Elbrus region on "Azau-Elbrus" there are 2 cable cars: Pendulum "Elbrus" and Gondola "ROMA".
Construction of recreation centers
In addition to the construction of ropeway complexes, in the Elbrus resort, construction of large tourist bases and boarding houses was carried out.
The first to open its doors at the resort was the Itkol boarding house - 1965, the second - the Cheget boarding house - 1974. New tour bases and accommodation facilities in the Elbrus region were built and opened annually.
The main large boarding houses were built in the 60s / 70s. Later, the period of construction of small private hotel complexes 3/4-storey. Most of the hotel complexes were built in 2000-2003. As of 2003 in the Elbrus resort, a little more than 30 accommodation facilities were registered, including tourist centers, boarding houses, hotel complexes.
Today, the resort administration strives to improve all areas of customer service and maintains a high level of service quality and hospitality.
After the Winter Olympics in Sochi, the pilgrimage of skiers and snowboarders to the slopes of Krasnaya Polyana does not stop. This is not surprising - everyone wants to join sports history. Moreover, getting to Sochi is easy and inexpensive. But the ski spots of Russia Krasnaya Polyana are not limited. You can come to all the resorts that we will talk about without knowing how to ride: each one has equipment for rent and the opportunity to take ski lessons from first-class instructors.
Ski club Leonid Tyagachev, Moscow region
The ski club is located in the north of the Moscow region in the vicinity of Dmitrov, which is only 70 kilometers from Moscow. Therefore, sports recreation can be diversified with cultural walks along ancient Dmitrov and the First See.
In addition to nine ski slopes of different lengths, with different elevation differences and all types of difficulty- from green to black - on the territory of the club there are trails for tubing, cheesecakes, cross-country skiing and an ice rink. The local black trail is unlikely to compete with the same category trail in the mountains, but as preparation for steeper descents, it is fine. The slopes are open until midnight and are well lit. And after skiing, there is no need to go far - there is a hotel, residential cottages and a cafe on the territory of the club. When going on a trip, do not be lazy to study the calendar of exhibitions in local museums - there are plenty of options to please your inner connoisseur of beauty. And while you are wondering what kind of vacation will bring joy, we took care of your comfort and selected several sets for skiing.
Skiing
Snowboard
Ski resort "Prielbrusye", Kabardino-Balkaria
The dazzling peaks of Elbrus, steep slopes for skiers and snowboarders from "beginner" to professional level - this is what the Prielbrusye ski resort is famous for with two ski areas - Elbrus-Azau and Cheget.
Elbrus-Azau is seven tracks of varying difficulty... But more often this zone is chosen by beginners and those who have only a couple of seasons behind them. Cheget is suitable only for the most advanced - here are some of the most difficult tracks not only in Russia, but throughout Europe. That you are still in a ski resort, and not in wild mountains, resemble only cable cars. But it is precisely the smooth surface of untouched snow and pine forests attract lovers of freeride and backcountry here.
On the territory of "Prielbrusye" and nearby there is a huge number of hotels, each of which has a cafe or restaurant - you will not stay hungry. Think about which ski area is for you, because we have already thought about the equipment.
Skiing
Snowboard
Ski resort "Tsey", North Ossetia
A republic with a rich culture is incredibly hospitable and famous not only for its amazingly delicious pies, but also for its ski resorts. "Tsey" is one of them.
Skating at seven ski slopes varying degrees of difficulty(black, red and blue) can be diluted with climbing Kazbek, ice skating and cheesecakes. There are several hotels of different price ranges on the territory of the ski resort, and Vladikavkaz is only a hundred kilometers away, therefore ski vacation easy to dilute with city walks.
You can leave your snowboard at home on this trip (there are no problems with rentals), but you will have to find a place in your luggage for sportswear.
Skiing
Snowboard
Mountain ski resort "Sobolinaya Mountain", Irkutsk region
The Sobolinaya Mountain resort near the city of Baikalsk offers skiers twelve tracks of all categories- from green to black, and many of them offer excellent views of the city. In addition to the ski slopes, the resort operates a rope park all year round, one of the largest in Eastern Siberia. Do not be lazy to combine your trip with a visit to Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude - each of them is just a few hours away by car or train. There are hotels both in the resort and in the city. It remains to be insulated.
Skiing
Snowboard
Ski resort "Mountain Air", Sakhalin
Going to Sakhalin and planning a ski vacation here, remember that the slopes are periodically closed due to weather conditions. And air traffic with the island can also be cut off at any time. But the impressions that Sakhalin will give are definitely worth getting to the island.
Fourteen tracks in red, green and black categories suitable for both beginners and experienced riders and skiers. Unlike all the previous resorts, entertainment is bad here, so "Mountain Air" is for those who are primarily interested in skiing. As a bonus, there are several cafes on the territory of the resort. Although what other bonuses are needed for those who climbed as far as snow and slopes? And this is enough here.
Skiing
Snowboard
