On December 14, the world's steepest cableway commenced operations, marking a significant milestone in the SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX project. The new direct connection between Stechelberg and Mürren was officially opened on December 13 during a VIP ceremony attended by over 600 guests. The event was followed by celebratory rides, guided tours of the new stations, and various activities at the Stechelberg Valley station.
With a gradient of 159.4 per cent, this cableway holds the record as the steepest in the world. It provides a rapid four-minute connection between the valley floor and the car-free mountain village of Mürren, traversing a height of 775 metres over a distance of 1,194 metres. The two cable cars, designed by Carvatech in Austria, can transport 85 passengers or 6.8 tonnes of cargo each, with a total capacity of 800 people per hour. The cableway is equipped with the latest technology, including an autonomous operation system monitored by cameras and sensors and a fully automated freight loading system.
In addition to opening the world's steepest cableway, the first section of the new Funifor cable car between Mürren and Birg also began operations. This installation marks Switzerland's first Funifor cableway. The dual-track system is designed for exceptional wind resistance and will operate alongside the existing cableway during winter to ensure sufficient capacity for ski transport. The second Funifor track is scheduled to open in November 2025, with plans for year-round service by 2026.
The stations are characterised by their distinctive copper façades and innovative design features. The finger docks at the mountain stations provide unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains, while the visible cable car technology draws inspiration from the old Gimmelwald cable station. Notably, the steep incline at the Stechelberg station necessitates that the cable cars exit and enter through the roof, a unique feature of the installation.
Although operations on the top section between Birg and Schilthorn have been temporarily suspended, the first Funifor track between Birg and Schilthorn is scheduled to open on March 15, 2025, with the completion of the project expected by spring 2026.
