Launch of a new ropeway experience on Monte Tamaro
A new era of cableway technology has just begun at Monte Tamaro, the adventure and leisure mountain in the canton of Ticino, Switzerland. With the opening of the new 8-passenger gondola lift, the operators are relying on state-of-the-art transport technology, premium equipment and a sustainable energy supply. This modernisation initiative helps make the wide range of mountain experiences at this popular summer destination even more relaxed and comfortable to access.
In the construction of the new installation, we relied on our proven strengths: design, craftsmanship and technological innovation. At Monte Tamaro, 8-passenger panoramic gondolas designed by Studio F. A. Porsche were installed, guaranteeing the highest level of comfort and unparalleled views of the Ticino mountain landscape. Barrier-free access and optimised ventilation further enhance the overall travel experience.
Particular attention was paid to harmonious integration into the landscape. To preserve the natural scenery, the number of towers was significantly reduced. Maximum efficiency was also a key focus in the design of the particularly slender stations. The drive system is located in the basement of the mountain station, which significantly reduces noise emissions. Within the station area, an electrically driven circulating system with tyre conveyors allows the boarding speed to be flexibly adjusted. This makes it possible to slow down the cabins, bring them to a stop or group them into convoys. In addition, the mountain station was repositioned closer to the Alpe Foppa restaurant and the cableway alignment was adjusted accordingly, enabling an even more direct connection in the future.
A clear commitment to sustainability and efficiency
Both the operator Monte Tamaro SA and our team placed great emphasis on environmentally responsible and sustainable implementation from the very early project planning stages. These measures in favour of environmental protection were already welcomed and recognised by the authorities during the approval process. Thanks to the modern cableway system and the comprehensive renewal of the entire technical and structural infrastructure, significant energy savings can be achieved. Together with a large-scale photovoltaic system installed on the roof of the new valley station, the gondola lift ensures a largely self-sufficient energy supply.
In addition, thanks to careful planning, high-quality architecture and carefully selected materials, the new installation blends harmoniously into the landscape and has a positive impact on the overall visual appearance.
Powerful and elegant access to a diverse mountain experience
The new 8-passenger gondola lift spans a route of approximately 2.5 kilometres and is equipped with 34 cabins, enabling the transport of up to 800 passengers per hour with a journey time of around ten minutes. With the opening of this modern installation, Monte Tamaro once again sets new standards after more than 50 years of company history, offering visitors a gondola ride that harmoniously combines speed, comfort, design and sustainability.
The fully privately financed project is supported by main shareholder Luca Cattaneo as well as Banca Stato. The aim of this investment is to strengthen Monte Tamaro as an attractive long-term excursion destination and, for the first time, to open it during winter on weekends and throughout the Ticino school holidays. «The renewal of the gondola lift represents a milestone for Monte Tamaro SA. After my five years with Bartholet, it is of great personal importance to me to have implemented this project with a company that meets the highest quality standards and offers tailor-made solutions,» explains Nicola Cattaneo, CEO of Monte Tamaro SA.
Markus Menzi also emphasises the excellent collaboration on this «milestone project»: «We are delighted to have contributed to the further development of Monte Tamaro with our technology and experience. The close cooperation with Monte Tamaro SA and the implementation of this project in Switzerland are of great significance to us as a company based in the Alpine region.»
This was already evident during the extensive construction work, as the 2024 summer season was carried out without any major impact on guests. Thanks to efficient planning and strict schedule management, restrictions were kept to a minimum, allowing operations at this popular excursion destination to continue while preparations for the next generation of gondolas were underway.
With the new 8-passenger gondola lift installed by our team, Monte Tamaro is now entering a new era, further enhancing its appeal alongside existing highlights – from the rope park and toboggan run to the Santa Maria degli Angeli church designed by Mario Botta.
