Matterhorn Alpine Crossing officially opens connecting Switzerland and Italy
Friday, July 21, 2023
The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing has been officially opened, marking the completion of the new 3S cableway from the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise mountain station to the Testa Grigia Valley Station.
With the highest border crossing by cable car in the Alps at 3480 meters, this project provides a scenic trip around the iconic Matterhorn and a year-round connection between two neighboring tourist resorts in Switzerland and Italy.
At the opening ceremony, celebrity presenter Michelle Hunziker, along with political and business representatives from both countries, celebrated the culmination of this visionary project. The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, a joint endeavour between Zermatt and Cervinia, has been a testament to pioneering spirit, innovation, and cooperation between the two nations.
With a total investment of CHF 140 million, this sustainable project showcases the commitment of Zermatt Bergbahnen to greater sustainability in the Alpine region. The new mountain station of the 3S cableway is equipped with a photovoltaic facility, further supplementing the resort’s renewable energy resources.
The Matterhorn Alpine Crossing expands the offerings of the Matterhorn Summer Paradise, inviting visitors to explore the picturesque Valle d’Aosta region with its charming Walliser-style houses. Activities like riding, biking, hiking, and golfing are available, and the Plateau Rosa SnowXperience world of adventure, opening in August 2023, will cater to winter sports beginners.
To assist travellers in planning their adventure, an online guide, matterhornalpinecrossing.com, provides useful information such as timetables, prices, and the complete route between Switzerland and Italy. Furthermore, starting in 2024, a convenient baggage transport service will be available for seamless travel between the destinations.
With this extraordinary project, Zermatt Bergbahnen continues to exhibit its commitment to enhancing the appeal of the Zermatt-Matterhorn resort, offering fresh experiences and cementing its position as a premium brand, symbolizing a unique high-level journey crossing two countries and cultures. Over the next decade, the company plans to invest approximately CHF 200 million in two cableways and staging crossing-focused events, anticipating an annual income stream of CHF 40 million.