Late boost before Cairngorm ski season closes because of Covid-19

A major boost in the past month propelled the season’s ski visitor days total to nearly 20,000 at Cairngorm Mountain before the coronavirus outbreak led to the resort’s premature closure.

The resort had imposed a daily limit of 450 snowsports fans at the weekend due to precautions for Covid-19.

There were 419 skiers and snowboarders on Saturday and 395 on the last day of the 2019/20 ski season on Sunday.

It has been a frustrating winter for operators Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland) Ltd (CMSL) with a late start because of a lack of snow and then the early closure when still excellent cover remains.

There had been hopes at one-stage the early Easter holidays could have bolstered the resort’s finances. The ski centre has been closed to all non-essential workers.

Interim chief executive Susan Smith said: “The CMSL board took a bold and challenging decision, but the right one, to announce the closure of winter snowsports prior to Government advice.

“From a late start of snowsports on natural snow on February 12 we have enjoyed 18,511 skier days.

“On behalf of our board, I want to thank our season pass holders, the local skiing community, ski school operators, ski clubs and the many businesses and community groups who have supported our team.

“We are grateful for their amazing support which has enabled the team to showcase their expertise in creating and sustaining the snowsports operation.”

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.