Visionary. Pioneer. Builder.
Where it all began
Boundless energy driving progress in the Dolomites
From the snowy peaks of Alpe di Siusi to the heart of Val Gardena, Leo Demetz helped shape the valley’s future. Driven by tireless spirit and deep love for his land, he designed ski lifts, envisioned tourist airports, and brought electricity to homes. His legacy still lives on today, among the suspended cables and trails of the valley.
Cableways, mountains, and the mind of a pioneer
Long before tourism became trendy, Leo foresaw its potential. He designed the first ski lifts at Alpe di Siusi and other areas, overcoming technical and political challenges. With Swiss equipment and a clear vision, he made the mountains accessible to all — launching a new era for Val Gardena.
From alpine roads to the dream of flight
Engines, planes, and cars fascinated him. He owned a rare Lancia Lambda, raced through the Dolomite passes, and earned his pilot’s license. His dream? A tourist airport on Alpe di Siusi — yet another proof of his boldness and vision. He conceived and experimented with:
- Runways for tourist flights
- Participation in historic car races
- Personal investments in innovation
- Early vision of private high-altitude transport
- Direct involvement in every project
PIONEER OF SKIING AND TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN GARDENA
A leap into modernity
In 1935, Leo Demetz inaugurated an innovative ski lift, leading Val Gardena into the future of winter tourism.
A pioneer from the Dolomites
Leo Demetz, an innovative entrepreneur, brought the Dolomites and the Ladin culture to the world with art, engineering, and a great technological legacy.
A tireless and visionary inventor
Leo Demetz was a pioneer in many fields, from technology to prefab houses, bringing innovation to the valley.
Innovation and tradition in the Dolomites
Leo Demetz left an indelible mark in technology, tourism, and Ladin culture in Val Gardena.
Private Life and Deep Roots
Leo Demetz was deeply connected to his family and the Ladin community, leaving behind not only a technical legacy but also a human and cultural one for future generations. He had two daughters with his first wife, Isolde von Pohl, who passed away during the pregnancy of their third child. After the war, Leo married Mathilde Stuflesser, and together they had seven children. Among his descendants, his grandson Egon Comploj, together with his own children, continues to carry on the family’s visionary spirit with the Lodge and Residence La Tambra.
SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND SANTA CRISTINA
He had two daughters with his first wife, Isolde von Pohl, who died during the pregnancy of their third child (who was never born). After the war, Leo married Mathilde Stuflesser, and together they had seven children.
Lifts & Ski Slopes
Lift status and hours: Impianti aperti in Val Gardena – Dolomiti
• Interactive slope map: Santa Cristina Ski Map – DoveSciare
Restaurants and Cafés nearby
• Our restaurant: La Tambra
• Full list of venues: Val Gardena – Bars & Restaurants
Ski School
• Ski School Santa Cristina – Val Gardena
Winter Hikes
• Recommended trails: Val Gardena – Winter Hikes, valgardena.it
• Hike to Mont Sëura: Outdooractive – Santa Cristina
