In the Mürren-Schilthorn ski resort in Switzerland, a huge project is slowly coming to an end. Two new gondola lifts have been in operation since the start of the 2024/25 winter season and another lift was added in mid-March. The connection between Stechelberg and Mürren is truly spectacular, featuring the world’s steepest gondola lift, which operates at an impressive 159.4% incline. Let’s take a closer look at the three-year mega project "SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX" and its three sections.
Alpine Mega Project: SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX
The Mürren-Schilthorn ski area reaches up to 2,970 meters in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland, making it the highest ski area in the region. With 50 kilometers of slopes and a stunning panoramic view of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau, it is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders.
The SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX project involves the complete reconstruction of the three gondola lift sections leading to the Schilthorn summit. The work is being carried out in multiple phases over three years, with the completion scheduled for spring 2026.
The existing lift system, dating back to the 1960s, had reached its capacity limits due to high demand and multiple transfer points. This ambitious project aims to increase capacity, enhance comfort for both locals and visitors, and improve freight transportation efficiency. By reducing the number of sections from four to three, the travel time from Stechelberg to Schilthorn will be reduced from 32 minutes to just 22 minutes.
The new connection between Stechelberg and Mürren is already fully operational, while one lane is currently in use on the Mürren - Birg route. Since March 2025, the gondola from Birg to Schilthorn has also been operating on a single track.
Offene Lifte und Pisten
Three Sections Between Stechelberg and Schilthorn
Section 1: Connection Stechelberg – Mürren
The new world's steepest gondola lift, with a spectacular incline of 159.4%, creates a direct link between Stechelberg and the car-free mountain village of Mürren. Covering a distance of 1,194 meters, it overcomes an impressive 775-meter elevation gain. While the previous lift had a maximum capacity of 400 people per hour, the new system now accommodates up to 800 people per hour.
The new cabins, manufactured by Carvatech in Oberweis, Austria, can hold up to 85 passengers. They feature a remarkably long 11-meter suspension arm, a necessary adaptation due to the extreme incline. Thanks to this innovation, the travel time has been reduced from approximately 10 minutes to just 4 minutes.
A key feature of the new gondola is the AURO system (Autonomous Ropeway Operation), which enables autonomous control. Sensors and cameras continuously monitor the ride, eliminating the need for onboard staff. The freight logistics system has also been optimized: luggage and goods are transported simultaneously with passengers in a specially designed container beneath the cabin.
>> Switzerland is also home to the steepest funicular railroad in the world
Section 2: Connection Mürren – Birg
At the start of the 2024/25 winter season, the new gondola connection between Mürren and Birg also became operational. The previous aerial tramway was replaced by two independent Funifor aerial tramways. Currently, only one of the two tracks is in use, with the second track set to open in November 2025. In normal operation, both gondolas run synchronously, but during maintenance, one track can operate independently, ensuring year-round service.
The new system accommodates 100 passengers per cabin, doubling the capacity to 2 × 400 people per hour. One of the two gondolas is also designed to transport up to 8 tons of cargo. With a top speed of 12 m/s, the travel time between Mürren and Birg has been significantly reduced.
Wettervorhersage
Section 3: Connection Birg – Schilthorn
The existing aerial tramway between Birg and Schilthorn is also being replaced by a modern dual-track Funifor aerial tramway. The first track has been in operation since March 2025, and in spring 2026, the SCHILTHORNBAHN 20XX project will be fully completed with the opening of the second track between Birg and Schilthorn.
Each cabin accommodates 100 passengers, increasing the total capacity to 2 × 400 people per hour. The mechanically independent tramways allow for continuous operation, even during maintenance. With a top speed of 7.5 m/s, the route is now faster and more efficient than ever.
New Gondola Stations at Schilthorn
Not only do the new gondolas set new standards, but the stations themselves also impress with thoughtful architecture and functional improvements. The bright copper facades give the buildings a modern and distinctive appearance, while the mountain stations offer unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks.
The newly designed Mürren station serves as a central hub for the Schilthornbahn, offering added convenience for guests with a sports shop, ski rental, souvenir store, and a sun terrace. Optimized logistics processes and a new loading area ensure smooth luggage and freight transport.
Perched dramatically on a cliff, the Birg station has been upgraded with an à la carte restaurant featuring panoramic views, additional retail spaces, and a walkable rooftop terrace with lounge chairs. Meanwhile, the popular Thrill Walk continues to deliver adrenaline-pumping excitement.
The Highest Ski Resort in the Bernese Oberland
The Mürren-Schilthorn ski area, located in the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland, sits above the Lauterbrunnen Valley and holds the title of the highest ski resort in the region. The nearest major town is Interlaken, approximately 20 kilometers away.
With over 50 kilometers of slopes, the resort offers varied runs for all skill levels. One of its most famous highlights is the legendary Inferno Downhill, one of the longest and most spectacular racecourses in the Alps. For thrill-seekers, the steepest slope in the Jungfrau Region, the Direttissima, boasts a staggering 88% gradient.
The ski season in Mürren-Schilthorn typically runs from mid-November to late April. 16 modern lifts transport winter sports enthusiasts up to an altitude of 2,970 meters. For a well-earned break, 12 mountain huts and restaurants await—including the famous 360-degree revolving restaurant Piz Gloria, offering breathtaking views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
There’s plenty to explore off the slopes as well, including toboggan runs, winter hiking trails, ice skating, and unique attractions like the Thrill Walk at Birg station or the interactive Bond World, which commemorates the filming of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
