Snowfall is decreasing, rainfall is becoming more frequent,and winter seasons are getting shorter. This is the reality most mountainresorts are already dealing with. At the same time, it’s also an opportunity: to broaden the offering and introduce new attractions to ski areas.

Although the range of attractions for mountain resorts is fairly wide, many of them keep repeating over and over again. So why not try something new? A single original idea can become the deciding factor that brings visitors back again.

What defines an ideal mountain attraction?

• It shouldn’t rely on snow if it’s meant to compensate for unpredictable weather
• It should operate year-round with minimal limitations.
• Low operational and maintenance demands are a bonus
• And the broader the target audience, the better - after all, mountains attract more than just athletes and adrenaline seekers.
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1. Atypical children’s playground

Families with young children are an important target group - and keeping kids entertained is no small task. But if a playground offers more than the usual slides, roundabouts, and swings, the fun is guaranteed. Children appreciate a little bit of adventure, especially if it's several metres above the ground.  → Playground examples

2. Net attraction for play and relaxation

Net playgrounds are extremely versatile. They can be built as a single standalone structure, or as a complex of interconnected nets linked by tunnels. They can be placed outdoors, inside a building, or inside a dedicated tower. They provide space for trampolining, ball games, and - most importantly - absolute relaxation.  → Net attraction examples

3. Multi-purpose play sculpture

Play sculptures are not only a striking visual feature - they hide a variety of elements both outside and inside. If your resort has an animal mascot or a recognisable symbol, why not transform it into an original themed playground? Marketers will love it.   → Play sculpture examples

4. Adventure for the whole family- 3D maze

It’s not a rope course, nor a treetop walkway. It offers the thrill of height and obstacle-crossing combined with beautiful views. No harnessing is required and operating costs are minimal. A 3D maze can even be fully self-service, including ticketing.   → 3D maze examples

5. Zipline never gets old

Mountains are perfect for ziplines thanks to their natural elevation. A zipline doesn’t need to be attractive only for its length - its routing, type of ride (seated, lying down, in pairs…), and even curved tracks can make it stand out. Curved ziplines are still a hot novelty. Just keep in mind that unlike most of the attractions listed here, a zipline does require staff.  → Zipline at the Klíny sports resort

6. Giant swing

This swing literally launches you into the air. It’s an attraction for the more daring, yet still rare enough to remain a major draw. It requires staff, but operating it is straightforward.  → Giant swing video from Cheb

7. Viewpoint photospot

A mountain-top view is enchanting on its own - but it can be enhanced. Photospots are becoming fairly common, yet if they combine several functions, they become far more appealing for both operators and visitors. You can incorporate a viewpoint, children’s play elements, and seating. Perfect marketing material! → Photopoint examples

8. Adrenaline tower - with a twist

Adrenaline towers usually combine ziplines with rope obstacles, but there are other possibilities. A tower can also become a vertical climbing playground suitable for adults and children alike. Obstacles can vary - nets, ropes, or other elements - and you can add a slide, viewpoint, and even stairs or a ramp for less confident climbers. → Adrenaline tower concept

9. Your own compact theme park

A themed mini-park with varied play activities for all ages doesn’t need a large footprint. And it doesn’t have to be a loud, flashing, tech-heavy zone full of expensive digital devices. Originality and a strong concept are what make it memorable.   → Mountain village theme park concept

10. A WOW attraction unlike anything seen before

Yes, a mountain-resort attraction can look like this too. Snowegg - a spherical structure of steel, wood, and glass - brings together sport, learning, and relaxation. It includes a viewpoint, connection to a restaurant, essential technical facilities, an oversized kaleidoscope, climbing elements, hammocks, and more. All in a completely unique form that truly impresses. Everyone would be taking photos of it.   → Snowegg attraction concept

To stay ahead of the competition and attract visitors, influencers, and even the media, a mountain resort above all needs an original idea. It’s easy to say but harder to create. Thankfully, there are experts who can help. The key to success is a skilled architect - and previous experience with designing attractions for mountain resorts is absolutely invaluable.