Zermatt’s lift company has announced that four of the cabins on its remarkable new 3S Gondola lift to the Klein Matterhorn, which is due to open this autumn after three years under construction, will feature “Crystal ride” cabins decorated with Swarovski® crystals.
“These will capture the light in an effect that will amaze passengers and provide an unforgettable adrenaline rush,” a statement from the lift company claims, “Passengers will leave the glamorous “Crystal ride” cabins wanting more.”
Thousands of Swarovski crystals will adorn the exterior of the “Crystal Gondola” cabins, which will be unique in the world. The crystals will also be used to embellish the lettering on each of the cabins’ seats. Swarovski used “Crystal Rocks” for the application, a world first in the cable car sector for this form of sparkling decoration.
In addition to the glittering decor inside and out, when passengers enter one of the four “Crystal ride” cabins, the glass floor is initially obscured. As the lift ascends however it will be revealed giving skiers and boarders great views of the glacier beneath them.
“(this)…will no doubt prove a startling moment for some,” the lift company statement notes, advising that for passengers not inclined to take in the sights unfolding beneath them, the panoramic windows offer an unforgettable view of the surrounding alpine scenery.
On the technical side, the cabins – designed by Pininfarina, the studio renowned for its work with Ferrari and Maserati – boast a series of innovative details. The seats have been inspired by principles used in car manufacture, along with ceiling lighting resembling a starry sky.
The new 3S lift from Trockener Steg to the Klein Matterhorn is set to open on 29th September and will be the highest of its kind in the world. It will run alongside the existing aerial tramway increasing transport capacity on the route by 2,000 guests per hour on the route from its valley station at 2,923m to the mountain station at 3,821m. There will be 25 cabins, each capable of holding 28 people with a ride time of nine minutes.