Germany’s Ski Resort That’s Covered in Sand

Monte Kaolino, located in Hirschau, Germany, is unlike any other ski resort in the world. Only at Monte Kaolino can athletes shred up a slope full of sand instead of snow.

Because of its unique material, Monte Kaolino attracts tourists mainly in the summer months. Although the material and season are unusual, the 360-foot slope uses a chair lift that functions as one would on a snowy peak. According to Mental Floss, Monte Kaolino uses 35 million tons of quartz sand to ensure complete coverage.

The origin of Monte Kaolino’s sand dates back to 1900. A company known as Amberger Kaolinwer started mining kaolinite in Hirrschau in 1901. Due to the extraction, they ended up with an excess amount of quartz sand, as the material is a byproduct of kaolinite separation. Amberger Kaolinwer began to use the quartz sand to make a pile that was continuously growing. Eventually, in 1950, the pile reached “mountain-sized proportions.” Later, in the late 1950s, Monte Kaolino hosted a ski club, beginning its journey as a ski resort.

Monte Kaolino’s unique time as a ski resort has proven to be a success, as they hosted the Sandboarding World Championships several times over the years.

The unique experience Monte Kaolino provides is exciting. From snow to sand and skiing to sandboarding, Monte Kaolino has it all.