Modern ropeway technology meets iconic sacred architecture
A new gondola lift is currently being built on Monte Tamaro, positioning itself as a forward-looking project within the Swiss ropeway landscape. Modernisation work on the existing installation began in May 2024 and is scheduled to be completed within one year. From the 2025 season onwards, the mountain station will be relocated closer to the Alpe Foppa restaurant, requiring an adjustment of the ropeway alignment. A particular highlight: the gondolas will cross the A2 motorway, making the ride even more spectacular.
Ride in panoramic gondolas by Studio F. A. Porsche
The new 8-passenger panoramic gondolas designed by Studio F. A. Porsche guarantee maximum comfort and outstanding views of the Ticino mountain landscape. The Swiss ropeway manufacturer Bartholet is responsible for the technical implementation of this major project.
Smooth operation during the construction phase
Despite the extensive construction work, the 2024 summer season was able to take place without major restrictions for visitors to Monte Tamaro. Thanks to efficient planning and tight scheduling, any limitations for guests were kept to a minimum. This made it possible to maintain operation of the popular excursion destination while preparations for the next generation of gondolas were carried out in parallel.
Monte Tamaro SA: a look back at its history
Monte Tamaro SA was founded in 1972 by Egidio Cattaneo (1925–2002) with the aim of creating a ski area for the local population. Since 2003, the company has focused exclusively on summer tourism, turning the mountain into a popular destination for excursionists. In addition to the new gondola lift, attractions such as the rope park, the toboggan run and the church Santa Maria degli Angeli designed by Mario Botta attract thousands of visitors every year. Under the leadership of Nicola Cattaneo, grandson of the founder, a significant new chapter in the history of Monte Tamaro is now being written with the new gondola lift.
A statement by Nicola Cattaneo
The renewal of the gondola lift is a milestone for Monte Tamaro SA. After my five-year professional experience at Bartholet, it is of great personal importance to me to implement this project with a company that meets the highest quality standards and offers customised solutions.
Greater comfort and environmental sustainability
The new gondola lift will significantly enhance ride comfort. Barrier-free access and improved ventilation ensure a pleasant experience for every guest. Special attention has also been paid to integration into the landscape. In order to preserve the scenery, the number of towers has been reduced to a minimum. The new stations will feature a more compact design, and the valley station will be equipped with a photovoltaic system to ensure even more sustainable operation. The drive system is located in the basement, reducing noise emissions. Within the station area, an electrically driven circulation system with tyre conveyors allows flexible adjustment of boarding speed, stopping of cabins or the formation of convoys.
A privately financed project with a long-term vision
The fully privately financed project is supported by main shareholder Luca Cattaneo and Banca Stato. This investment aims to establish Monte Tamaro as an attractive excursion destination in the long term. The new gondola lift not only modernises the infrastructure but also sends a strong signal in terms of environmental responsibility. Cooperation with Bartholet has proven ideal in meeting the high standards of comfort and sustainability.
Technical key data of the new gondola lift
Capacity: 800 persons per hour
Length: 2530 m
Journey time: 10 minutes
Gondolas: 34 gondolas designed by Studio F. A. Porsche
Towers: 19
Vertical rise: 1052 m
With the completion of this modern ropeway, Monte Tamaro once again sets new standards and will offer visitors from 2025 a gondola ride that combines comfort, design and sustainability in perfect harmony.
